Made in Cap Verde: Produtos di Terra
Wine from Fogo
The wines of Fogo Island, in Cape Verde, are a unique and special product, with characteristics that distinguish them from other wines in the world.
The volcanic island of Fogo offers an exceptional terroir for viticulture. The vines grow at high altitudes, in mineral-rich soils of volcanic origin, with an arid climate and little rainfall. This combination creates grapes with unique characteristics, resulting in wines with intense, mineral flavors.
The main grape varieties grown on Fogo Island are Malvasia Branca and Forasteira. Malvasia Branca produces dry or sweet white wines with floral and citrus aromas, while Forasteira produces robust, full-bodied red wines with notes of spices and black fruits.
Fogo Island’s most famous wine is Manecon, a traditional wine made from a blend of Malvasia Branca and Forasteira grapes. Manecon is a semi-sweet or dry wine with a low alcohol content and is enjoyed locally as an aperitif or digestif.
In recent years, new producers have emerged on Fogo Island who are investing in modern winemaking techniques, resulting in high-quality wines that are gaining international recognition. These wines express the unique character of the island’s terroir, but with a more modern and refined style.
Drinking wine from Fogo is more than just tasting good wine. It’s an opportunity to experience the island’s authentic culture and connect with its history and traditions.
If you visit Fogo Island, don’t miss out on the Wine Route, which will take you to see the vineyards, wineries and local producers. You can taste the island’s different wines and learn about the production process.
Wines from Fogo Island can be found in some stores on the country’s nine islands, as well as in some specialized stores and in Portugal, and you can also buy them online on some websites.
Café do Fogo
The coffee on the island of Fogo is considered by some to be one of the best coffees in the world. It is known for its unique flavor, intense aroma and balanced acidity.
Coffee from the island of Fogo is grown at high altitudes, in volcanic soils rich in minerals, with an arid climate and little rainfall, which means that the beans have very distinct characteristics.
The main varieties of coffee grown in Chã das Caldeiras are arabica bourbon and arabica typica, which means that these varieties are of high quality.
As for the taste, Volcano Island coffee has a rather intense flavor, with a very distinct taste and just the right amount of acidity. And it’s worth mentioning that this coffee is usually processed using the natural method, which results in a coffee with a fruitier and sweeter flavor. You can also find coffees processed using the washed method, which produces a coffee with a cleaner, more acidic flavor.
Awards
Coffee from Fogo has already won several international awards, such as the gold medal at the 2018 Cup of Excellence in Paris, France.
Drinking coffee from Fogo is more than just enjoying a delicious drink. Coffee production is an important part of life for the inhabitants of Fogo, and coffee is often consumed at times of fraternization and celebration.
If you have the opportunity to try Fogo Island coffee, I recommend that you try it pure, with no added sugar or milk. That way, you can enjoy all the unique flavor and aroma of this special coffee.
