Terra das Lanchas History: Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

More than just a brand, Terra das Lanchas is a mission

Our goal is to inspire more people to choose products produced with respect for nature, promoting a more sustainable world. We believe that the future belongs to brands that prioritize the preservation of the planet and its communities, becoming socially relevant.

3 +50

Years of Passion

Generations

The Origins

It all began about 50/60 years ago when grandfather Amílcar Vila Flor emigrated to France in search of better living conditions with his wife Julieta. They left with only a backpack and the nostalgia of their homeland. During their time in France, the longing for their homeland never disappeared; on the contrary, it grew stronger. Amílcar, with his humble wisdom, shared with Julieta that it was time to be happy again and return to their homeland, Cinco Vilas. In France, they could earn a lot of money, but it did not bring them the happiness and freedom they regained in Cinco Vilas, especially considering they wanted their heir to have the same freedom they had when they were young.

The Return and New Life

Upon returning from France, they transitioned from a city life to an agricultural life, where they began buying olive groves and other agricultural lands that remain in the family to this day. The Vila Flor family is now in its third generation of this legacy, and with each generation, new olive groves are planted. The traditional practices and methods used by our ancestors, such as dry farming, continue to be used, avoiding industrial and intensive methods. This ensures authenticity, quality, and a unique flavour in our product.

Our Lands

Our lands are on the slopes of the Côa River, which flows into the Douro River, where the altitude varies between 450 and 720 meters. This places us at the boundary of Terra Quente and Terra Fria, making our product unique. Our olive groves are dry-farmed, and we have new olive groves planted by the latest generation, about 15 years old, as well as centuries-old groves where there are no records of the plantings, but analyses suggest that some olive trees are over 300 years old.

Traditional Olive Groves

Our olive groves belong to the traditional production regime, i.e., the density of trees per hectare remains below 400 trees/ha. Unlike intensive production, this method of production makes it possible to limit the use of resources such as fertiliser and water. Olive trees have more space and find more resources in the land naturally.

Sustainable Practices

To ensure sustainable practices, we try to involve animals in the ecosystem, as was done in the past. Animals play an important role in sustainability, helping to maintain soil fertility and control pests naturally. Our agriculture continues to be organic, without the use of pesticides or any non-organic products.

Commitment to Education

Terra das Lanchas is dedicated not only to increasing awareness of our product and unique region and production, but we are also committed to educating consumers about olive oil’s health benefits and taste. An important component of enhancing the consumer experience is to broaden our customers’ understanding of extra virgin olive oil’s many uses and provide a greater knowledge of pairings and recipes, especially Portuguese.

Our goal is to heighten the experience and enjoyment by consumers with tasting instructions and materials, allowing our customers to deepen their appreciation of quality olive oil products and increase their sophistication in capturing distinct taste, aroma, and colour. Our marketing education program is based on our knowledge that superior olive oil contributes to healthy and happy living.

Once consumers learn how to properly use and taste quality extra virgin olive oil, market studies have confirmed that they become repeat and loyal buyers.