Since the beginning of the Caminhos Cruzados project, we have clearly defined the guiding values ​​for sustainability: 

• link ancestral traditions to technology and innovation; 

• promote the generation of circular value in the use of soil, water and natural resources; 

• seek a deep connection with the community, through sharing knowledge and good practices;

• use the entire ecosystem of the vineyard and its surroundings as a differentiating factor for the production of grapes with their own character and unique terroir. 

After 10 years of some experiments, trials - and errors! -, we believe we are on the path of regeneration, resilience and transition, the three fundamental steps to respond to market demands in matters of sustainability and agroecology but above all to be able to face climate change and the challenges it brings to the our profile, identity and terroir.

In 2021 we started a plan for the agroecological management of Quinta da Teixuga, which encompasses not only the vineyard, but also the forest and natural spaces that surround it, with the aim of being able to use nature as our ally and, progressively, reduce to minimize or even eliminate the use of herbicides and phytopharmaceuticals, creating truly ecological wines

In 2022 we are already using certified sheep for the production of Queijo da Serra to control weeds and promote regenerative coverage of the vineyard's soil, which will result in more fertile soil rich in biodiversity and carbon. 

Additionally, we are restoring forests and forest spaces to promote the development of arbutus and oak groves, which represent very important habitats for the ecosystem of the Dão region where we operate. 

We are also investing in good circular economy practices with the development of production processes and compost of natural fertilizers from the remains of vineyard and forest pruning and also with the help of the rich microbiome of the soil and the forest dead blanket that will be fundamental in soil regeneration and the climatic and ecological resilience of the vineyard, as well as a very practical way of guaranteeing and even improving the terroir of our wines. These interventions in the forest and vineyards improve the mosaic of habitats and the ecosystem services they provide, increasing biodiversity, water and carbon availability while reducing the risk of fire, pests and soil erosion.