The development of the Alentejo as a wine - and not just a cork - region is still so recent that the pioneers are still in place.
One of those who has guided the region is João Portugal Ramos. For many years, he was to the Alentejo what Michel Rolland is to Bordeaux - the preeminent consultant. He is now firmly established in his eponymous winery at beautiful marble-soil Estremoz, and consequently has taken a back seat.