A Loja do Xavier, a story of courage, family and true inclusion

A human project rooted in Ericeira and the Dão region

Some projects start with an idea. Others grow from a deep need to stand in the world with dignity. A Loja do Xavier belongs to this second category, where human connection comes first and inclusion is not a concept but a way of living.

Created after almost two years of work, experiments and determination, the shop reflects Xavier’s unique talents, his family’s roots in the Dão region and the gentle inspiration of Ericeira, the village where they live.
It is a family project built step by step, with patience, care and a lot of heart.

A personal encounter that stayed with me

I had the privilege of meeting Xavier and his family last year. A simple, sincere moment that touched me immediately. Their calm strength, their kindness and the way they support one another left a strong impression on me.
There is a rare unity in this family, a way of facing challenges with Love and dignity that stays with you.

Who is Xavier ? A young man full of curiosity and joy

Xavier is a young adult with Down syndrome, curious about the world, generous and genuinely attentive to people. He loves welcoming customers, helping them choose and sharing what he knows about his products.

His journey is a beautiful example of what becomes possible when opportunity meets trust. His family is around him, of course, but he is the face and the driving force of his own brand.

Quality products and Portuguese wines with a personal touch

A Loja do Xavier is built on strong values: quality, social responsibility and respect for the environment.
The selection is thoughtful, with a special focus on Portuguese wines, chosen with care.

One of the most charming aspects of the project is the wine labels. They are inspired by Xavier’s own drawings. The natural way he matches colours, the spontaneity of his lines, the joyful energy of his sketches… everything is printed on the bottles.
Each series is numbered and produced in limited quantities, giving every bottle a personal, handcrafted feel.

Learning, growing and gaining confidence

Training is a key part of Xavier’s story. In recent months, he has had the chance to learn with wine consultant Rodrigo Quina, who guided him through logistics, wine selection and customer service.

This is not a final stage, but a beginning. Xavier keeps learning, evolving and refining his knowledge. His pride when he talks about his wines is unmistakable.

A project that continues, even without a physical shop

Although the physical shop in Ericeira had to close due to Xavier’s busy schedule — classes, dance, theatre and his professional activities — the project remains alive through the online store.

The spirit hasn’t changed. The mission stays the same:
to offer quality products, create opportunities and show that inclusion is a strength.

More than a shop: a life story and a message

A Loja do Xavier is not just a gourmet shop. It is a life story, a living example of what inclusion can create, and an invitation to look differently at those society sometimes overlooks.

You might come for a bottle of wine, but you leave with something else: a smile, a genuine moment and a big piece of humanity.

And that is worth more than any label.

Follow Xavier on Instagram 📸 and Facebook 💙 and discover his wines on alojadoxavier.com 🍷