Esporão presents the Big Day, a programme full of different ways of experiencing the Alentejo, when you can stop and really get a feel for the life at Herdade do Esporão. During these days, ancient know-how fuses with the new, the traditional with the contemporary, sustainability with innovation, while time passes at nature’s own pace for a change.

“The Big Day is a truly unique time in the life of Esporão. We open the Herdade to everyone and seek to share what we do and how we do it (our wines, olive oils and gastronomy) in an intense and singular way, alongside the experience that we have of this rich and varied land, its historical and natural heritage. We want give a voice and more space to Portuguese culture, local traditions and new perspectives on them, talking about issues we believe to be important in modern society (this year we highlight architecture, diet and the Tua Dam – which we argue strongly against) or simply offering somewhere to enjoy with family and friends”, says Catarina Santos, who is in charge of Esporão’s marketing and communication.

This year, the programme for the second day and the morning meal has been extended to lunchtime, with activities for a special Sunday of music, workshops, bike rides, a special cellar wine tasting or a visit to the Perdigões Archaeological Complex, where excavations are taking place.

On the first day, there are wine and olive oil tastings at the wine tourism unit, as well as visits to the wineries and cellars. At the Esporão & A Comida Portuguesa a Gostar Dela Própria (Portuguese Food Likes Itself) Market, visitors can buy gastronomic products and handicrafts that are sourced locally and nationally. Meals will be served in al fresco and, like last year, Esporão has an area of comfortable tents and tepees, for those who wish to sleep in harmony with nature and wake to the peace of the Alentejo’s early hours.

More at http://diagrande.pt/en/