In the heart of Trás-os-Montes, Northern Portugal, lies Parada, a village where the passage of time has crafted not just landscapes but legacies. At an altitude of 800 meters, surrounded by rolling hills and centenarian vineyards, Parada is more than a destination—it’s a sanctuary of history, culture, and craftsmanship. Here, Casa do JOA, a family-led winery, carries forward the rich traditions of winemaking while embracing modern innovations for a sustainable future.
Today, we are showcasing our partner Casa do JOA, who plays a crucial role in SmartVitiNet. They serve both as a user and a provider of piloting facilities- meaning that the drones and data management will be piloted in their fields, providing essential inputs and feedback on the technologies the project has been developing.
The Essence of Parada, where the story begins
Parada is a place where traditions and nature coexist harmoniously. Historically a center for tin and tungsten mining, the village today celebrates its agricultural heritage, thriving with olive groves, chestnut trees, and unique vineyards. Known as the "place of pause," Parada offers a serene escape, reflecting the unhurried pace of life. Its stone-built houses, authentic Transmontana culture, and vibrant local community make it a symbol of resilience and preservation.
Casa do JOA: Guardians of a Legacy
At the core of Parada’s charm is Casa do JOA, a winery dedicated to safeguarding the traditions and land of this extraordinary region. Its vineyards, many dating back to the 19th century, represent a living testament to the past. Planted as ungrafted "pé-franco" vines, these centenarian vineyards host 20+ grape varieties, making them a rare and invaluable resource.
Housed in a beautifully renovated stone barn, Casa do JOA’s winery reflects the essence of Parada’s architectural and cultural heritage, blending seamlessly with the landscape.
When Traditional Winemaking Meets Modern Innovations
Casa do JOA combines the art of traditional winemaking with cutting-edge technologies from SmartVitiNet. The winery’s guiding philosophy—minimum intervention, maximum monitoring—allows the wines to express the terroir’s purest essence.
"The feeling of the land in our hands is amazing. Having data-driven decisions to better preserve the land is outstanding,"
- Jorge Ortega Afonso,
General Manager and winemaker at Casa do JOA
Key features of Casa do JOA’s winemaking approach:
Minimal Intervention: Wines are crafted without additives like enzymes or cultured yeasts, preserving their authentic character.
Data-Driven Viticulture: Using SmartiVitiNet’s drone technology and AI, Casa do JOA optimises vineyard health, preventing diseases and determining harvest dates with precision.
Natural Aging: Wines mature in used French and Portuguese oak barrels, with Parada’s cold winters providing natural clarification.
Preserving Vintage Integrity: Each bottle captures the unique climate and conditions of its harvest year.
Casa do JOA’s wines, including Alto do JOA and Feito de JOA, embody Parada’s spirit—strong, elegant, and timeless.
A Success Story in Innovation and Sustainability
Casa do JOA is not just about exceptional wines—it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem. Through partnerships like SmartiVitiNet, the winery leverages data-driven solutions to maintain vineyard health while sharing knowledge with other producers to enhance field-based practices and sustainability.
Join the Conversation
For the people of Parada, winemaking is a way of life. Families gather to celebrate the harvest, sharing laughter, stories, and traditions. Casa do JOA honors this heritage by involving the local community in its efforts to preserve and promote Parada’s vinicultural treasures.
Whether you are a wine enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or someone seeking the simple pleasures of life, Parada and Casa do JOA offer a slice of timeless beauty. Share this post with your network and let them discover the magic of Casa do JOA—a place where every bottle is a story, and every sip is a connection to history.
Discover Casa do JOA
Casa do JOA is an invitation to experience a slice of timeless beauty. Whether you’re a wine lover, a cultural enthusiast, or an advocate for sustainability, Casa do JOA offers something truly special.
Stay connected with SmartVitiNet and never miss an update! Follow us on LinkedIn and X. Join our growing community and be part of the conversation shaping the future of viticulture.
Comments