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It is our pleasure to invite you to uncover some of the secrets behind the traditional art of Medronho distillation - and honey as well.

Across cultures, every country seems to have a drink or product linked to old rituals and traditions passed down from generation to generation. In the northern Algarve and neighboring Alentejo, Medronho fills that role. The fruit grows wild on the arbutus tree (Arbutus unedo), often called the strawberry tree, although the spirit itself tastes nothing like strawberries. Medronho is a powerful fruit brandy, with an alcohol content that typically ranges between 40% and 50%.

A popular commercial variation, sweetened with honey and infused with herbs, is known as Brandymel.

This day is dedicated to understanding how this age-old craft is kept alive by people who refused to give up, even after summer fires devastated large areas of Medronho trees in the Serra de Monchique. Honey has a story of its own: beekeeping is an art in the Algarve, one that has been practiced and perfected for centuries. Honey production in the region dates back to Roman times and, since the 16th century, has been established as a business and an important pillar of the local economy.

Unlike most supermarket honey, which is often mass-produced, processed, and pasteurized, traditional honey reflects careful labor and deep knowledge of nature. Many people buy honey without realizing the work behind it - so now it’s time for a taste!