ABOUT
SENESCAL
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Merging history, tradition and dedication, at Senescal Brewery we strive to follow the Opus Magnum of the Grand Masters — choosing the highest quality ingredients to create recipes that transcend space and time.
We brew 100% natural and vegan beers: no chemicals, no acids, no additives, and no animal-derived products or by-products. Many of our recipes celebrate local Algarve and Portuguese ingredients — delivering authentic flavours with body, mind and soul.
Instead of reinventing the wheel, we seek the original elixir and embrace this craft as our vocation. Beer at its finest.
THE BEER OF CASTRO MARIM
We are proud to be part of this rich scene that offers immense inspiration and varied resources to entertain anyone's imagination and fantasy. The foundations of our company, like the solid stones of the castle wall, are experience, tradition and passion. Our goal is to create an exceptional drink, not just because we want to, but because you deserve it.
For nearly a thousand years, the Senescal was the keeper of powerful resources, master of the office, and guardian of extensive royal assets. Finally, it was time to let some of these secrets resurface, blessing our souls and bringing meaning to our existence. The truth will set you free — just as beer will quench your thirst.
A LAND BRIMMING WITH HISTORY
Senescal Brewery is located in the heart of Castro Marim, on the east coast of the Algarve. The city's history traces back to Neolithic times, Roman settlements, and a thriving medieval village. After the dissolution of the Order of the Knights Templar in 1312, most of the brotherhood was absorbed into the newly founded Order of the Knights of Christ (1319), with its first headquarters established in the City Castle.
The name of the brewery comes from this heritage: the "Seneschal" was the Grand Master's right-hand man, keeper of all keys and secrets — and, as some believe, guardian of the Holy Grail. Castro Marim Castle's silhouette integrates our logo, inspired by an original painting from around 1510 in the Livro das Fortalezas (Duarte de Armas).
Every summer, at the end of August, the popular Medieval Festival takes place within the castle walls — banquets, performances, historical re-enactments, and an authentic medieval market that floods the streets and squares with tourists, locals, and characters embodying the medieval way of life. An enchanted journey to a special place of the past.
OUR
BREWMASTER
GABRIEL SILVEIRA
Passionate about the craft, Gabriel Silveira started his journey as a child in Toulouse, the Occitan capital in Southern France. His favorite activity was running between the vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon and castles like Foix, Montségur, Puivert, or the walled village of Carcassonne. In love with history and great tasty food, he also learned to enjoy good beverages like wine.
Later, in adulthood, he stretched his adventure to the British fields, castles, and traditional pubs. During 10 years in the UK, he toured Great Britain many times playing in a Folk Band and discovered the vast world of Real Ale. He eventually got a full-time job in a traditional pub specialised in Craft Beer and Cask Ales. His enthusiasm was evident, and the landlord, Peter Darby, decided to teach him everything he knew. Within a couple of years, Gabriel became fully responsible for all the pub's beer preparation, stock, cellar, and equipment maintenance. While in charge, the pub always received 5 stars from Cask Marque's independent certification.
Searching for yet another horizon, Gabriel moved to the Algarve — South Portugal — and in the historic village of Castro Marim founded Senescal Brewery. It was as if everything made sense: combining local heritage, his own life experiences, and a deep passion for ale in one meaningful project.
Gabriel loves his work and embraces the mission of helping grow the Portuguese craft beer scene by sharing recipes, discoveries, and dedication — with body, mind, and soul.