15th – 17th Centuries

Until the beginning of maritime expansion, Portuguese economy was based on agriculture. Among many other products, the ships would transport wine, which was used in commercial transactions with the Orient and Brazil. If it was not sold, the wine would be returned to its producers. The wine would be transported in small barrels, subject to the movement of the waves and, sometimes, exposed to high temperatures, which made it age. These wines became known as “Roda” (free translation: turn) or “Torna Viagem” (free translation: return trip) and, once in Portuguese soil, they would be sold at much higher prices.

By the 16th Century, Lisbon was the biggest centre for wine consumption and distribution.