Dora Simões

Dora Simões is the President of the Vinhos Verdes Viticulture Commission (CVRVV). Since July 2022, she has led the interprofessional organization responsible for the management, certification, promotion, and protection of the Vinho Verde Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and the Minho Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).

Previously, she co-managed her family wine business in Reguengos de Monsaraz, Alentejo, alongside her husband, Luís Duarte, for seven years.

Between 2008 and 2015, she served as President of the Alentejo Wine Commission (CVRA), where she led the strategic development and international positioning of the Alentejo wine region. She was also one of the driving forces behind the creation and implementation of the Alentejo Wines Sustainability Programme (WASP), a pioneering initiative that has become an international benchmark for sustainable wine production.

With more than 25 years of experience in the wine industry, Dora began her international career at Ernest & Julio Gallo Winery, where she held the position of Associate Marketing Manager for Central Europe, based in Germany. In this role, she contributed to the development of one of the world’s leading wine companies across several European markets.

Throughout her career, she has held senior executive positions in both national and international organizations. As Managing Director of ViniPortugal, she was responsible for the promotion and internationalization of Portuguese wines, leading market development initiatives across Europe, North America, Asia, and South America.

Since assuming the presidency of the Vinhos Verdes Wine Region, Dora has focused on enhancing the value and reputation of the Vinho Verde region, strengthening its international presence, promoting innovation and sustainability, and supporting the long-term competitiveness of one of Portugal’s most dynamic wine regions.

She holds a degree in English for International Business from the University of Central Lancashire. Dora is married and the mother of three children.