Two siblings have made a bold move from London to the Serra da Estrela region in Portugal to start a high-end wine consultancy business. Their venture, Martins Wine Advisor, caters to a global clientele of millionaires seeking exclusive wines.
A Bold Move to Seia
Micaela and Cláudio Martins, the siblings behind Martins Wine Advisor, decided to leave the bustling city of London to return to their roots in São Romão, Seia. Their new venture occupies a modest 80 square meters on Avenida 1 de Maio but has already made a significant impact on the global wine market.
Expertise and High-End Wines
The Martins siblings brought with them a wealth of experience in placing high-end wines in elite markets. Their portfolio includes wines that have fetched astronomical prices, such as a bottle of Liber Pater 2011 sold for €180,000. Their expertise has made them ambassadors of the Dão wine region, although their clientele spans the globe.
Commitment to Local Economy
Micaela Martins emphasized their commitment to the local community: “People recognize our effort because we could have easily gone to Lisbon or Porto, but we chose to come here to give back to the region and acknowledge the support we’ve always received.”
The Código Project
The Martins siblings have also collaborated with friends to launch the Código project, which features wines crafted by Dão ambassador Tiago Massena. This partnership combines their unique skills: Tiago’s winemaking expertise, Cláudio’s sales acumen, and António’s strategic planning.
A Diverse Wine Shop
Martins Wine Advisor’s shop already boasts 300 wine references, including selections from Pico Island and the luxurious Quinta da Vaquinha in the Douro region. Their goal is to showcase the origin and quality of each wine, inspiring both local and international wine enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Martins siblings’ venture is not just a business; it’s a tribute to their heritage and a boost to the local economy. Their success in the high-end wine market demonstrates that even a small town like Seia can have a global impact.
