Douro Valley
wine tasting tours and winery visits

The Douro Valley, home of world-famous port wine, is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world and one of the most beautiful. Could there be a better place to visit on a wine tasting holiday? Wine has been produced here for over 2000 years and in 2001 the Douro was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, an accolade which acknowledges the region’s long tradition of viticulture and outstanding landscapes. 

WINE TASTING EXPERIENCES IN THE DOURO VALLEY
Port is produced exclusively in the Douro Valley and there is an abundance of quintas (wineries) where you will be warmly welcomed for a port tasting experience to learn about the production process and discover the difference between a Ruby, a Vintage and a Tawny. However, port is no longer the sole produce of the region, and the Douro Valley is fast establishing a reputation for high quality red and white table wines. In fact, nowadays around 40% of wine production in the regions is unfortified, and a new generation of winemakers are breathing new life into Douro’s ancient traditions.  
The easiest way to experience the Douro Valley is on a privately guided or small group wine tasting tour from Porto so you can let someone else do the driving! If you prefer to linger longer and immerse yourself in Douro life, ask the Winerist team about staying overnight in a peaceful riverside retreat or amongst the vines in a renovated quinta. 

MORE REASONS TO VISIT THE DOURO VALLEY 
The Douro Valley is an enchanting region of dramatically beautiful scenery. The serene Douro River winds its way through steep, terraced vineyards, and hillsides dotted with villages and centuries-old quintas. Journey through the picturesque landscape by train, take a leisurely boat cruise along the historic river or even take a hot-air balloon flight for a magical birds-eye view. 

WINERIST INSIDER TIP
For a truly unforgettable Douro Valley experience, plan your visit around the time of the grape harvest. Harvest time typically commences in September and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the traditional foot-treading and perhaps even lend a hand (or foot in this case!) Handpicked grapes are poured into traditional granite lagares and a party ensues as people climb in to gently crush the grapes underfoot, usually to the tune of rousing traditional music!