O Port wine é a symbol of the region, but it’s on the other side of the Douro that you’ll find the famous Caves, in Vila Nova de Gaia. In the past, rabelo boats came down the river from the Douro Wine Region (classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
With a centuries-old history, the Port Wine Cellars attract thousands of visitors every year tourists. But visiting one of these places and getting to know this drink better is something we should all do do it at least once in your life. Don’t know where to start? Then read our article cup in hand!
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Ferreira Cellars
Caves Ferreira and its history are intertwined with that of the impressive Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, better known as “Ferreirinha”.
The brand was born in 1751, at a time when the business world was dominated by men. That’s why “Ferreirinha’s” dexterity deserves to be highlighted. Centuries old, today Caves Ferreira is owned by Sogrape.
Inside, the history of the brand (…) is told through the life and work of Dona Antónia Ferreira, in a journey that takes in the region of the Douro and its wines, especially the famous Vintages collection, the oldest of which dates back to 1815″, reads on its official website.
Where: Av. de Ramos Pinto 70, Gaia
Caves Calém
Founded in 1859, the Caves Calém are now one of the best known. In addition, its space, in Vila Nova de Gaia, provides a truly interactive experience for visitors.
You can visit the museum, opt for a guided tour and, of course, enjoy a good wine tasting. But there’s more. If you want to see a good fado you can do it with a glass in your hand.
Where: Av. de Diogo Leite 344, Gaia
Ramos Pinto
This is one of the best-known cellars among Port lovers. Created by Adriano Ramos Pinto in 1880, it still stands out today as one of the most famous brands.
At the Ramos Pintos Visitors’ Center in Gaia, you can buy a ticket that will allow you to visit the Adriano Ramos Pinto Museum – which features advertising posters from the Belle Époque, panels of tiles and much more -, the Caves and enjoy a tasting at the end.
Guided tours take place daily, but advance reservations are not accepted, so they take place according to the available schedule.
Where: Av. de Ramos Pinto, 400
Taylor’s
Established in 1692, Taylor’s practically needs no introduction as it is one of the oldest Port houses. With a unique history, you can visit Taylor’s Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
According to the brand’s ownwebsite the museum has been renovated and tells the story of Taylor’s and wine through an audio tour guide, available in 13 languages.
According to the same source, the cellar tour also includes:
- Films;
- Documentary material;
- Exhibitions;
- Paintings.
At the end, you get a wine tasting.
Where: R. do Choupelo 250, Gaia
Real Companhia Velha
Founded in 1756, Real Companhia Velha has maintained its activity uninterrupted. Today, his name appears on the best Port wines in the world. However, you can learn more about its centuries-old history on a visit to its Port Wine Cellars .
Or you could discover the “Museum of the 1st Demarcation” in Rua de Serpa Pinto. There, in that area, you can always take the opportunity to try Enoteca 17.5, a large space where you can eat and enjoy a good glass of wine, with a view overview.
Where: R. Azevedo Magalhães 314, Gaia
Sandeman Museum Cellar
It all started in 1790, when George Sandeman, a young Scotsman, convinced his father to invest in setting up a Port and Jerez (Spain) wine business.
It was worth the effort, because along with its longevity, it is also one of the most internationally recognized brands. Besides, who hasn’t noticed the figure of the man in the cape and black sombrero?
“The Sandeman Dog”, the brand image, was painted in the 1920s by George Massiot Brown, in an allusion to the black cape of the Coimbra students and the sombrero (hat) typical of Jerez.
That’s why, when you visit the Sandeman Cellar Museum, you’ll certainly come across this figure, ready to explain the history of his wines. But the best part is at the end, tasting this nectar of the gods!
Where: Largo Miguel Bombarda 3, Gaia
Graham’s Port Wine Cellars
Graham’s Cellars are ideal for those who don’t like crowds, but they don’t deserve any less attention.
Built in 1890 on a hill in Vila Nova de Gaia, this place has a breathtaking view over the Douro, the center of Porto and the emblematic D. Luíz I Bridge.
Here, as well as the beautiful scenery, there are also more than 15,000 oak barrels, some of which are more than a century old.
At the end of the day, you can always end your visit on a high note at Vinum, an excellent restaurant and wine bar waiting to be (re)discovered!
Where: Rua do Agro 191, Gaia
Cockburn’s
It’s normal that when you visit, you’ll always see someone working nearby. All because, as one of the largest Port wine warehouses in Gaia, there’s always something to do, even when you’re visiting.
This cellar is huge and very beautiful and, if you’re very lucky, you’ll be able to admire the coopers’ room in operation, with the staff repairing the barrels themselves.
At Cockburn’s you can have your tasting in a large room overlooking the winery or outside on a comfortable terrace set up for this purpose. You can also opt for the Premium tasting in the John Smith room, which is more private and just as spectacular.
Where: Rua Serpa Pinto 346 (on foot); Rua Dona Leonor de Freitas 225 (by car)