Career Reboot Managing An Orgnanic Winery in Portugal- Rita

Rita Abreu manages Cortém Organic Winery in Portugal, bringing a rich background from tech marketing to health and wellness across various countries. Her journey to the winery began after moving to Portugal and serendipitously participating in a grape harvest that led to her current role. Rita’s story underscores her adaptability and how new opportunities can provide profound professional and personal growth.

Rita Abreu, manager of Cortém Organic Winery in Portugal, embodies a story of transformation and adaptability. Her journey, which has spanned various countries and career phases, is a testament to her resilience and commitment to embracing new opportunities. Vinhos Cortem, nestled in the scenic village of Cortem near Lisbon, offers a tranquil retreat into the world of organic winemaking.

Rita's professional path began in the tech industry, where she organized training classes and delved into marketing—a field that honed her skills in connecting with people globally. This phase of her career was marked by an eagerness to learn and an ability to adapt, qualities that would later define her transition into winemaking.

After taking a break to raise her children, Rita found herself at a crossroads, seeking a pursuit that matched her passions and life's new rhythm. Her move to Portugal was driven by a desire to slow down and return to her roots, having been born in Madeira and raised in the UK before living in the US. Portugal offered a different pace of life, one that prioritized family and leisure over the relentless hustle of professional life.

Cortém Organic Winery wasn't just a workplace for Rita; it represented a new chapter where her past experiences could merge with a newfound love for winemaking. The winery itself is steeped in history, with facilities that trace back hundreds of years, providing a tangible connection to the evolution of winemaking.

Rita's entry into the winemaking industry was serendipitous. Her initial visit to the winery was a result of her curiosity and outgoing nature, leading her to join a group visiting for the harvest. This experience sparked a profound interest in winemaking, eventually leading to her managing the winery under its new owner, Thomas Lindborg, after a chance encounter during another harvest season.

Under Rita’s management, Cortém Organic Winery has continued to thrive, drawing visitors not just for its wines but for the experience of a lifestyle deeply connected to nature and tradition. Rita's story is a powerful reminder of the beauty in new beginnings and the strength in embracing change, no matter one’s age or past experiences.

In sharing her journey, Rita offers inspiration for those looking to reinvent their lives and careers. Her ability to blend different cultural influences, adapt to new environments, and lead a winery with no prior experience in the field underscores a message of resilience and adaptability.