The best Port Wine cellars in Gaia

More than three centuries of history divided into 11 staging points with detailed information about the company, its wines (from the grape to the chalice), the people of the Douro or the almost lost art of cooperage... All this to discover with the help of an audio guide in five languages and a selfie spot, where visitors can take pictures as a testimony of their passage to remember in the years to come. All visits end with a tasting of two emblematic Taylor’s wines, also offering, at various prices, premium tastings and private masterclasses, among other treats.

Its name merges with the history of Port Wine and the Douro Demarcated Wine Region. And it is the name of woman - Dona Antónia Ferreira, a unique figure in a world dominated by men. Entering the Ferreira Cellars is also an inspiring journey through time. During the tour, take a closer look at the old photographs, or the agricultural implements used to work the vineyards on the Douro terraces, and get to know the customs and traditions of those who, with sweat and tears, have produced this unique nectar for more than two centuries.

At first glance, it can be confused with Zorro but Don is the real name of the mythical man in the black cape and hat, surely the most famous silhouette in the world of wines. This is just one of the many curiosities to discover about one of the most international of the Port Wine brands. Walk through the dark and wet cellars and into the bright tasting room, where the long-awaited explosion of aromas and flavours takes place. Choose your favourite nectar and, if you can, take a bottle with you.

It is one of the oldest national wine companies, founded in 1756 - by order of King D. José I (Joseph I) and with the high sponsorship of the Marquis of Pombal, on the same day that the Douro Demarcated Region was established. There are more than two centuries of history to discover, between giant barrels and the green walls of the cellar. You can choose between the various types of visits available, from the most basic to the most exclusive, tailored to all wallets but always offering the best wines.

If you are looking for a relaxed and interactive experience, the Porto Cálem Cellars are surely among the best Port Wine Cellars. Refurbished in 2012, the museum allows you to explore, in a fun way, the history of Port Wine and the entire manufacturing process, in addition to boosting activities that promise to test your senses. Have you ever imagined trying to distinguish grape varieties or types of wines using only your sense of smell? Enjoy a glass of Port Wine while listening to fado; it does not get any better than this!

The advertising posters of this house, inspired by the Belle Époque and signed by some of the most acclaimed artists of the beginning of the 20th century, are still highly sought-after by collectors, such is the boldness and innovation for the time. It was 1880 when Adriano Ramos Pinto founded the brand that would quickly conquer the Brazilian market. At the museum, enjoy some of these coveted works of art, among other gems.

If you avoid crowds and want your foray into the past and present of the Port Wine industry to be unhurried and in detail, Graham’s has to be part of your itinerary. The approximately 15,000 oak barrels, some of which are more than 100 years old, and the extraordinary wine cellar, where bottles of Vintage Port have been resting since 1890, are the crown jewels of Graham’s Lodge. End your visit at the Vinum, a restaurant and wine bar with enchanting views over the Invicta City.

Founded in 1588, in England, it assumes itself as the oldest active Port Wine house. At its headquarters in Gaia, discover the story of the legendary John Croft IV as you walk through the dark corridors of the old warehouse, amid centuries-old barrels where the best wines rest and mature. Choose a simple visit or venture into a different experience, for example, a pairing of wines and Portuguese chocolates, cheeses, or almonds. Will you be able to resist?

Located right in front of the lower deck of the D. Luís bridge, the high windows and the tall building, as if going up the slope, offer visitors a privileged view of Porto, with the Douro at their feet. The elegant and exclusive atmosphere of this winery, the walls made of history and the quality of the wines and tasting menus make Burmester one of the most sought-after Port Wine Cellars by tourists. In 2020, it was distinguished with the Travelers' Choice award, by the TripAdvisor tourism platform.