The first historical reference to Herdade de Coelheiros dates back to 1467 when the estate was offered as a dowry to Dom Ruy de Sousa and D. Branca de Vilhena. Dom Ruy was a prominent figure in the history of Portugal, known as the main “architect” of the Treaty of Tordesillas. 

In the following centuries, the property was acquired by different families, until it was bought by the widow Isadora Calhau in 1863. She became the first female owner to explore the estate in a rare enterprising spirit among the women of the time.

Image — Document in which D. Isadora Maria declares that she intends to buy the Casas de Almeida and Coelheiros Estates from the Falé family. 

The property is sold to the Count of Azarujinha. In this period, the first records of vineyards in the estate are found. However, those vines have not endured the passing of time.

Image — Reference to the existence of vineyards at Herdade de Coelheiros, where farmer Francisco Carvalho makes a commitment to "treat carefully". 

Throughout the centuries, the exploitation of the estates in Alentejo was generally granted by lease to farmers. Many were the people who have explored Coelheiros and inhabited it.

Image — Monte de Coelheiros in the time of farmer António Francisco Carvalho. 

Just before the revolution, the property was bought by Dom Diogo Pereira Coutinho. At this time, the crops consisted of livestock, cork and cereals. With the 25 of April revolution and the agrarian reform movement, the estate is occupied by the local population. 

Joaquim and Leonilde Silveira buy the estate and start a new phase in Coelheiros with the plantation of vineyards and a walnut orchard. The first vines are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Arinto, Roupeiro and Trincadeira. The choice of international varieties was an innovation at the time and allowed the production of wines with a distinct profile.

The first Tapada de Coelheiros red is produced, under the guidance of winemaker António Saramago. The label represented the traditional tapestry of Arraiolos, an art cherished and exhorted by Mrs. Leonilde Silveira who held an arts and crafts workshop in Igrejinha. 

The wines of Coelheiros gain national and international recognition. Among them, Tapada de Coelheiros Garrafeira 1996, which marks the history of the estate by receiving several awards as the best wine of Alentejo and Portugal.

A new chapter begins in the history of Coelheiros. The couple Alberto Weisser and Gabriela Mascioli fall in love with the estate and its biodiversity, and acquire the property, where they decide to reside. 

Luís Patrão is invited to direct the enology and viticulture of Coelheiros. Antonio Saramago maintains his connection to the estate. 

Launch of the new image of Coelheiros which transcribes its connection to the territory, origins and traditions. Inspired by the art of Arraiolos' embroidery, it evokes the uniqueness of each block and grape variety, and the way they are meticulously crafted. This centenary art expresses the distinct profile of the wines of Coelheiros.