Beyond the Tagus River, the Alentejo DO benefits from a unique blend of continental and Mediterranean climates. Over the past 20 years, its eight sub-regions have gained prestige, making the Alentejo Portugal’s second major wine region after the Douro. Since 1983, the Roque do Vale family has managed 64 hectares at Herdade da Capela ("The Chapel"), one of two vineyards under the Casa Clara name. Located in the Moura sub-region at the heart of Lower Alentejo, the estate experiences the region’s most intense continental heat. However, the steep slopes on the left bank of the Guadiana River bring welcome thermal amplitude. Anchored in clay-limestone soils, this unique terroir produces characterful wines made exclusively from native Portuguese varieties. The estate is currently converting to organic farming and is a proud member of the Alentejo Wines Sustainability Program.