taylors port house tour

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Taylor Fladgate Port House

Porto (gaia), portugal.

Taylor’s is an Iconic name for port wines, with 325 years of history, an independent company in which some family members play a leading role in all areas of the winery’s activity.

Taylor’s is also respected as a producer of wood aged ports and holds one of the largest reserves of rare cask aged wines from which its distinguished aged tawny Ports are drawn. The house is also known as the originator of Late Bottled Vintage, a style which Taylor Fladgate Port House pioneered and of which it remains the leading producer.

Taylor Fladgate, now in its fourth century, recently renovated its 300 year old Cellars to incorporate a modern and innovative museum circuit. The story of Port wine and Taylor Fladgate is now told through an extensive audio-guided visit, available in twelve languages, which will take you on a vivid tour of the Lodge that includes an array of films, images, exhibits, photographs and paintings.

Two of Taylor’s iconic Port wines to taste: Chip Dry – Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), invented by Taylor’s in the 1930’s and 1970’s respectively. F.A.Q. Do I have to book in advance for a tour? No reservation is required for the audio tour Is there a tour schedule? No, you will be able to get started as soon as you arrive. How much does a ticket cost and what does it include? Adult tickets cost 15€ and include an audio guide (available in 12 languages) and the tasting of two Ports (Chip Dry & Late Bottled Vintage). For children between 8 and 17 years of age, the ticket costs 6€. It includes an audio guide, grape juice and cookies. For our guests under 8 years of age, entrance is free. What wines will I taste? Two of Taylor Fladgate's iconic Port wines to taste: Chip Dry – Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), invented by Taylor Fladgate in the 1930’s and 1970’s respectively. Can I book a private tour? Yes. With advance booking, you may enjoy a private tour and tasting. Whatever your knowledge of Port we can provide you with the right level of tour. Each tour is customised and charged based on each event. Should you be interested in a private tour and tasting, please fill our contact form. How can I book a tour for a large group? You should book in advance, sending a message through our contact form. BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE

Tasting Price: 15 Euros

Tours are available in 11 languages. For a private tour book in advance. The visitor is given the opportunity to journey into the past and learn about the history of Port wine and its production today, the Douro Valley and the house of Taylor Fladgate, its past, present and its wealth of exceptional Ports. In addition to the two wines included on the tour, there is a range of Port tastings for our visitors to enjoy including a choice of many different aged Tawny Ports, or one of Taylor Fladgate's classic Vintage Ports. With advance booking, you may also enjoy a private tour and tasting. Whatever your knowledge of Port we can provide you with the right level of tour. Each tour is customised and charged based on each event. For those interested we also recommend: • Traditional opening of Taylor Fladgate Vintage Ports with hot tongs; • A private commented Port tasting with accompaniments • Different educational experiences such as a Vintage Port Master class or informal lesson in Port cocktails • Tasting of olive oil from the Douro valley - Quinta de Vargellas extra virgin; • A visit to our wine shop where you can find the whole range of Taylor Fladgate Ports including charming gift boxes or rare Vintages; • Tasting by-the-glass of old tawnies; • Restaurant "Barão de Fladgate” - www.baraofladgate.com, open daily for lunch from 12h30 until 15h00 or from 19h until 22h for dinner; • Trying one of our food and wine pairing options during your tasting

This winery offers Cave Tours on or nearby their winery facility. Cave Tours typically involve barrel room exploration in either natural caves or man made underground storage rooms.

There is a restaurant on-site.

Wine Tastings

This winery offers wine tastings on the property either by walk-in or appointment.

This winery offers wine tours on their property. Either of the winery facility, vineyards and/or cellar space.

Grape Varieties

• Touriga Franca
• Touriga Nacional
• Tinta Roriz

Wine Styles

• Fortified Wines

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Taylor's Port

We offer 24 hr free cancellation on most of our tours, winery visits and hotels. For more detail please see the individual cancellation policies on the tour, winery or hotel page.

Winery Overview

Taylor’s is the archetypal Port house and its wines the quintessential Ports. Established over three centuries ago in 1692, Taylor’s is one of the oldest of the founding Port houses.  

It is dedicated entirely to the production of Port wine and in particular to its finest styles. Taylor’s Vintage Port is one of the world’s great iconic wines. Made only in the very finest years  – known as ‘declared’ vintages – Vintage Ports are blended from the best produce of the firm’s own estates.

Taylor’s long family tradition has provided continuity and clarity of purpose, with family members still playing a leading role in all areas of the firm’s activity. The company is committed to producing the highest standards of Port and determined to preserve the unique environment of the Douro Valley through the promotion of sustainable and responsible viticulture.

Taylor’s invites you to an exciting and informative tour of its famous cellars at Vila Nova de Gaia. The recently renovated 300-year-old cellars incorporate a modern and innovative museum circuit. The story of Port wine and Taylor’s is now told through an extensive audio-guided visit. You will be given the opportunity to journey into the past and learn about the history of Port wine and its production today, the Douro Valley and the house of Taylor’s, its past, present and its wealth of exceptional Ports.

In addition to the two wines included on the tour, there is a range of Port tastings for visitors to enjoy including a choice of many different aged Tawny Ports, or one of Taylor’s classic Vintage Ports.  

With advance booking, you may also enjoy a private tour and tasting. Contact us for details and prices.

Book your winery experience

The audio-guided tour lasts, on average, one hour, with a further 30 minutes required for the Port wine tasting at the end, in the tasting room.  There is no tour schedule: you will be able to get started as soon as you arrive.  Price includes the tasting of two of Taylor’s iconic Port wines to taste: Chip Dry – Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), invented by Taylor’s in the 1930’s and 1970’s respectively.

Winery facilities

Grape varieties, customers who visited this winery also visited.

Porto: Taylor’s Port Cellars & Tasting

Nestled in the heart of Porto like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, Taylor’s Port Cellars offer a journey through time and taste that captivates the senses.

But what lies beyond the charming facade and historic cellars of this esteemed hotel?

Discover the secrets behind the velvety richness and complex flavors that have made Taylor’s Port a beloved choice for connoisseurs worldwide and uncover the mysteries that make this tasting experience one to remember.

• Sample iconic Taylors wines with Porto views
• Learn about Port history at 300-year-old cellars
• Enjoy self-guided visit with audio guide
• Taste Chip Dry and Late Bottled Vintage wines

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Porto: Daytime or Sunset Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River
• Porto: 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Yacht Tour
• Porto: Six Bridges Cruise
• Porto: Combined Ticket for WOW Cultural District

Activity Details

Discover the exciting activity details for Taylor’s Port Cellars & Tasting, where visitors can enjoy a 300-year-old experience of Port history and production .

The cellar tour takes guests through the historic Taylors cellars, providing insights into the traditional methods and rich heritage of Port wine production .

The wine tasting session offers a delightful experience where visitors can sample a selection of Taylor’s iconic wines, including Chip Dry and Late Bottled Vintage varieties.

With an audio guide available in 13 languages, guests can explore the nuances of Port history while savoring these exquisite wines.

This combination of a cellar tour and wine tasting makes for a truly immersive and educational journey into the world of Port wine.

Experience Highlights

Visitors to Taylor’s Port Cellars & Tasting can indulge in a sensory journey through the rich history and exquisite flavors of Porto’s iconic wines. At Taylor’s, guests have the opportunity to learn about Port history and production in the 300-year-old cellars of one of Porto’s oldest founding Port houses, established in 1692. This experience offers a unique chance to sample Taylor’s iconic wines while enjoying stunning views of Porto.

Visitors can also upgrade their tasting with Taylor’s classic Vintage Ports, and partake in a self-guided tour with an audio guide. The tasting includes Chip Dry and Late Bottled Vintage wines, providing a comprehensive exploration of Porto’s renowned wine heritage.

More Great Things To Do Nearby

Booking & Payment Options

For those considering a visit to Taylor’s Port Cellars & Tasting, convenient booking and payment options are available to enhance your experience. When planning your visit, here are some key features to keep in mind:

• Payment flexibility : Reserve now and pay later, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment.
• Flexible booking option : Ideal for those who prefer to plan ahead but pay closer to the date of the visit.
• Gift options : You have the opportunity to gift the reservation to friends or family, making for a thoughtful present.

These options ensure a hassle-free booking experience, accommodating various preferences and needs for a smooth visit to Taylor’s Port Cellars.

Customer Reviews

Considering the seamless booking process at Taylor’s Port Cellars & Tasting, the reviews from customers offer valuable insights into their experiences and overall satisfaction. Visitors consistently praise the hospitality quality , with many highlighting the staff’s friendliness and knowledge about the wines.

The tasting notes receive glowing reviews, with particular emphasis on the diverse selection of white and red Ports that provide a comprehensive tasting experience. Customers appreciate the informative aspect of the visit, enjoying learning about Port history and production while sampling Taylor’s iconic wines.

The positive feedback extends to the overall museum experience, with many mentioning the value for money and recommending Taylor’s Port Cellars as a must-visit for groups, couples , or solo travelers in Porto.

Review Summary

In the realm of Port wine experiences, Taylor’s Port Cellars & Tasting stands out as a highly recommended activity in Porto. Visitors find the activity enjoyable and informative. The tasting experience includes white and red Ports, as well as Gin Tonic to take home.

Employees are praised for their hospitality, enhancing the overall visit. The hospitality quality at Taylor’s Port Cellars & Tasting is exceptional, with staff members going above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience for all guests.

The tasting experience isn’t only educational but also a delight for the taste buds, offering a wide range of flavors to explore.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Porto: Pastel De Nata Cooking Class
• Vila Nova De Gaia: Port Wine Tasting With Cheese Pairing
• Porto – 6 Bridges Port Wine River Cruise With 4 Tastings
• Porto: Cellar Tour, Dinner & Fado Show at Fonseca
• Traditional Fado Show With Local Musicians
• Port Wines & Chocolate Pairing

Common questions

Can Visitors Participate in a Guided Tour of the Taylors Port Cellars?

Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of Taylor’s Port cellars. The tour typically lasts about an hour and provides fascinating insights into the cellar’s rich history. Guests can explore the world of Port production firsthand.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Wine Tasting Experience?

There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for the wine tasting experience. However, visitors should be aware of tasting etiquette and be prepared to show ID for alcohol consumption . It’s important to respect local laws and guidelines.

Are There Any Special Events or Activities Available at Taylors Port Cellars?

Exclusive events and interactive activities are available at Taylors Port Cellars. Visitors can enjoy special tastings, guided tours , and even grape stomping experiences. These unique opportunities provide a deeper insight into the world of Port wine.

Is There a Dress Code for the Wine Tasting Experience?

For the wine tasting experience, there is no specific dress code. Visitors usually opt for smart casual attire. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Guests often find comfort in wearing neat and stylish outfits to complement the elegant setting.

Can Visitors Purchase Bottles of Wine to Take Home From Taylors Port Cellars?

Yes, visitors can purchase a variety of wines to take home from Taylor’s Port Cellars. The wine selection includes iconic Vintage Ports and other classics. Visitors can choose from a range of souvenir bottles to enjoy.

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To sum it up, a visit to Taylor’s Port Cellars in Porto is a must for anyone looking to explore the rich history and flavors of iconic wines.

With a 300-year-old legacy, self- guided tours , tasting sessions , and friendly staff , this experience offers a perfect blend of education and enjoyment.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple , or part of a group, Taylor’s Port Cellars promises a memorable and immersive journey through Porto’s renowned wine culture.

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Port cellar tours and Port tastings in Porto - updated for 2024

Porto is famed for producing Port wine, and a tour of one of the historic port cellars along with a port tasting session, is one of the best unique activities of the city.

Ancient laws dating back to the 17th century, dictate that for the sweet, fortified wine to be classified as Port, it must be stored and matured within the city of Vila Nova de Gaia, which sits opposite Porto on the southern banks of the Douro River. This means that within a relatively compact area of Vila Nova de Gaia are all of the major Port houses and their cellars (which are referred to as Lodges)

Many of the Port houses provide guided tours of their cellars along with Port tasting sessions. These tours and tastings sessions are informative, social and surprisingly inexpensive, and are a fantastic experience while on holiday to Porto.

This guide will detail the best Port tour and tasting sessions and help you get the most from this very enjoyable experience. Related articles: Introduction to Porto – Top 10 Porto

Being many centuries old, the Port cellars are rich in heritage - such as the Caves Burmester, pictured above

Tawny Ports are aged in small, oak casks and are typically stored for between 10 and 40 years

Port cellar tours in Porto

All of the Port cellars are situated on the southern side of the Douro River in the city of Vila Nova de Gaia. Each of the Port houses provides a slightly different experience, but they generally follow the same pattern: • An overview of the production of Port • The history of their company • A guided tour of the cellars (including photo opportunities) • A tasting of two or three ports

The tasting session often compares the three types of Ports; White, Ruby and Tawny or a selection of Ports of different ages.

The typical cost of a cellar tour, with a basic tasting, will range from €14-17. This type of tour is offered by all of the Port houses. More expensive tours include a premium selection of Ports, often hosted in a more impressive tasting room.

All of the Port cellar tours (except for Taylor's) are led by a tour guide, so they have a maximum number of spaces and set times for different languages. Tours should be pre-booked before heading to Vila Nova de Gaia, as turning up on the day can often lead to disappointment, especially in the peak summer season.

We always suggest visiting at least two Port cellars during your stay in Porto. This is a fantastic activity for later in the afternoon or evening, as you may leave a little bit tipsy!

The main tourist area of Vila Nova de Gaia lies along the banks of the river, and the port houses in this area (such as Sandeman and Cálem) will always be the most popular and sell out first. The cellars further away from the river, which are up a steep hill, provide a calmer atmosphere and often have more spaces available. These cellars include Real Companhia Velha, Graham's and Cockburn's.

The interactive map below shows the location of the Porto lodges within Vila Nova de Gaia. The shaded yellow area marks the main tourist area. ( Note: zoom out to see all of the points)

Key: 1) Augusto's 2) Burmester 3) Cálem 4) Churchill's 5) Cockburn’s 6) Ferreira 7) Fonseca 8) Graham’s 9) Poças 10) Ramos Pinto 11) Real Companhia Velha 12) Sandeman 13) Taylor's 14) Vasconcellos

Sandeman is one of the most popular Port cellars

The colour scale and storage time of the different varieties of Port, as seen in the Cálem museum

The best Port cellar tours and tastings sessions in Porto

With more than ten different Port houses providing tours and tasting sessions, there is a wide choice available to you. As these are all very similar, you will have a fantastic time whichever one you choose to visit.

The best Port cellars to visit are: 1) Ferreira 2) Cálem 3) Real Companhia Velha 4) Graham's 5) Sandeman 6) Taylor's 7) Ramos Pinto 8) Cockburns 9) Burmester

Insight: If you are new to Porto, we would recommend starting with one of the more tourism-focused Port cellars, such as Cálem or Sandeman, then have a second (or third) tour to one of the more atmospheric cellars, such as Real Companhia Velha, Ferreira, Graham's or Cockburns.

Ferreira is regarded by the residents of Porto as the best Port cellar to visit. It offers an informative tour of some of the oldest port cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and concludes with a great selection of Ports. The Ferreira company is highly regarded by the Portuguese, as it is a wholly owned Portuguese company (most Port houses were British owned) started by an inspirational woman named Dona Antónia Ferreira.

If you have no prior knowledge of Port, Cálem makes a great starting point. It provides knowledgeable guides and fascinating interactive displays. The downside is that it can get very busy, with large tour sizes and slightly rushed tasting sessions. ( Cálem cellar tour tickets )

Real Companhia Velha provides a more authentic experience and features magnificent port cellars, however it is a long way from the main tourism area of Vila Nova de Gaia. Real Companhia Velha is one of the oldest wine companies of Portugal, having been started by King Jose I in 1757. ( www.realcompan hiavelha.pt)

Graham's is a highly recommended experience, with a relaxed atmosphere and a larger set of cellars (www.grahams -port.com ). The Sandeman cellar, at the heart of the tourism area, has enthusiastic guides and is always a popular choice with visitors: www.sandeman.com

Taylor's should also be mentioned, as it provides a self-guided tour with a multi-language handset. This tour is not limited by visitor numbers, which is great for the busy summer season or if your desired language tour is sold out at other cellars. Taylor’s also has a pretty outside tasting area in a charming courtyard garden. ( www.taylor.pt )

Ramos Pinto makes an interesting choice for your second or third Port tour, as it includes the original 19th-century office and details the 'unique' marketing techniques of the company. www.ramospinto.pt/

Cockburn's is the largest Port cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia. Their tour provides something extra, as here you are able to watch the coopers at work as they preserve and repair the wooden barrels. ( www.cockburns.com )

Burmester is a smaller Port cellar at the base of the Ponte Luís I, which is also well worth a visit.

Porto tasting

Tourist insight: The port tours are excellent value, but the bottles of Port sold in the shops attached to the Port houses are often not good value. For standard bottles of Port, it is much better value to visit the wine shops in Porto or even the supermarkets. Unique gift: Each bottle of Port states the year it was produced, which can make a unique gift for a birthday or to commemorate a special year such as an anniversary.

Why are the Porto lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia?

All of the Port cellars are located in Vila Nova de Gaia, and the reason for this dates back to the 13th century.

Medieval Porto was effectively ruled by the bishop of Porto, and he taxed all boats that moored in the city. King Alfonso, seeking to avoid these taxes, established a second port in Vila Nova de Gaia (New Town of Gaia) opposite Porto on the southern banks of the Douro.

This port became the main centre for the transportation of grapes from the Upper Douro, and it became law in the 18th century that all Port must be matured within Vila Nova de Gaia.

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Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar, Porto

Wine cellar in porto.

Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Oporto (Porto), is one of the most esteemed and historic port wine houses in the region. With a rich heritage dating back to 1692, Taylor’s has established itself as a producer of exceptional ports, renowned for their quality and craftsmanship.

The cellar itself is an iconic landmark, attracting visitors with its charming and picturesque setting. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the impressive façade and a beautiful entrance adorned with colourful tiles. The building’s architecture reflects the traditional style of the region, exuding an aura of elegance and authenticity.

Inside the cellar, you’ll discover a world of port wine, steeped in history and tradition. The guided tours offered at Taylor’s provide a captivating insight into the art of port wine production. Knowledgeable guides take visitors through the various stages of the winemaking process, sharing fascinating stories and details about the aging and blending techniques that contribute to the unique flavours of Taylor’s ports.

As you explore the cellar, you’ll witness the vast collection of oak barrels and casks, where the port wines mature over time. The atmosphere is infused with the enticing aroma of aging wines, creating a sensory experience that truly immerses visitors in the world of port.

One of the highlights of a visit to Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar is the opportunity to enjoy a tasting. In the elegantly appointed tasting room, you can sample a selection of their finest ports, guided by expert sommeliers who provide insights into the characteristics and nuances of each wine. From the vibrant and fruity Ruby Ports to the complex and refined Tawny Ports, Taylor’s offers a range of options to suit different preferences.

The cellar also features a delightful terrace overlooking the Douro River, offering great views of Oporto’s historic cityscape. It’s a perfect spot to savour your port wine while enjoying the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar provides an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and history lovers alike. It allows visitors to delve into the captivating world of port wine, appreciating the traditions, craftsmanship, and flavours that have made Taylor’s a true icon of the industry.

The Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar, Porto appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Porto !

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Visiting Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar, Porto

Cellars (mon-sun): 11:00 – 18:00 Tasting Room and Shop (mon-sun): 11:00 – 19:00 Restaurant: 12.30-15.00 // 19.00-22.00

Nearby Attractions

• Espaço Porto Cruz (0.4) km Wine Cellar in Porto
• Sandeman Wine Cellar (0.4) km Wine Cellar in Porto
• Calém Wine Cellars (0.5) km Wine Cellar in Porto
• Jardim do Morro (0.6) km Gardens and Viewing Point in Porto
• Ferreira Wine Cellars (0.6) km Wine Cellar in Porto
• Serra do Pilar Monastery (0.7) km Monastery in Porto
• Praça da Ribeira (Ribeira Square) (0.8) km Square in Porto
• Casa do Infante in Porto (0.8) km Historic Building in Porto
• Dom Luís I Bridge (0.8) km Bridge in Porto
• Church of São Francisco (Porto) (0.8) km Church in Porto

Tours and Activities from Porto

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11 Port Houses to Visit in Porto

Thinking about planning a trip to the famous port houses of Portugal? If you enjoy drinking port or just want to learn more about the fascinating history of the Port and how it’s been made, stored, and transported through the years in Portugal , you absolutely must get started planning your trip.

We’ve got a fantastic list below of the 11 best port houses to visit in the Porto region. There are actually two sides to the city often referred to as Porto. On the southern side of the Douro river is the city of Vila Nova de Gaia and on the northern side is the Ribeira district and the city of Porto. They are connected by the famed Ponte Luis I Bridge.

The Vila Nova de Gaia side is where you’ll find all of the port houses. Along the river is the main road on which many of the port houses have tasting rooms, like Calem and Kopke. Some of the other places are built up on the hillside and require a little climb to get there (like Taylor and Graham).

Planning your trip to Porto?

• Book a transfer from the airport to the city of Porto with Welcome Pickups.
• Rent a car from the Porto airport through Discover Cars .

Where to Stay in Porto:

• InterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas : Not only is this a gorgeous hotel, it’s in the most prime location possible in Porto for tourists. ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor .
• Pestana Vintage Hotel & World Heritage Site : Stay here if you want to be close to the water with easy access to Vila Nova de Gaia.    ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor .

Best Tours and Experiences in Porto:

• 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting Tour
• Douro Valley Small-Group Tour With Wine Tasting, Lunch, and Optional Cruise
• The Best of Porto: 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour

Table of Contents

How To Get There

There are several ways to get to Porto, Portugal , depending on your budget, travel preferences, and where you are coming from.

• By plane: Porto is served by a major international airport, Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), which is well-connected to many European cities and several destinations worldwide. You can fly directly to Porto from several major airports, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, and New York, among others.
• By train: Porto is well-connected to other cities in Portugal and neighboring countries by train. The city has two main train stations, São Bento and Campanhã, which offer frequent connections to Lisbon, Braga, Coimbra, and other destinations in Portugal, as well as to Vigo, Madrid, and other cities in Spain .
• By bus: Porto has several long-distance bus stations, with connections to major cities in Portugal such as Lisbon and in Spain, as well as to other European destinations like Paris and Amsterdam. Flixbus, Eurolines, and Rede Expressos are some of the major bus operators that serve Porto.

» Preparing to visit Porto? You might also want to read our top things to do in Porto and where to eat and drink in Porto . Maybe head up to the Douro Valley for some wine tasting. Read our guide about renting a car in Porto .

Port Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia

There are two ways you can do port tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia. The preferred way is to make an advanced arrangement for a tour and tasting. Not all Port houses have continuous tours that you can just pop into, and English tours are only given occasionally.

Making a reservation will ensure you can see and do what you want, without disappointment. In order to make reservations, contact the port houses individually via email, or see if they have an appointment form on their website (many do!).

The other way to do port tastings is to just pop into the tasting room and ask. While some don’t offer this, some do.  We also found that we could walk in and schedule an appointment for later the same day.

If you don’t want to go through a tour at each port house, it would be wise to find out which places offer just a simple tasting. You can do that by emailing in advance.

⇒ We recommend this Port Wine Tour in Vila Nova de Gaia – visit 3 Port houses and try 6+ wines.

Top Port Houses to Visit

If you’re looking into a trip to Porto for Port wine tasting, and you want to find the best port in Porto, you’ll quickly find that there are dozens of Port Houses to visit, so the decisions aren’t going to be so easy.

This guide will help you narrow down the choices. These are 11 favorites among the Port houses that dominate the landscape in Vila Nova de Gaia.

If you’re a power taster, you can probably get around 4+ port houses in a day, if planned properly. But we would not recommend this. Don’t forget that port has a much higher alcohol level than wine and can catch up with you quickly. We recommend only visiting 2-3 port houses in a day.

Don’t forget that Porto is only an hour’s drive from the beautiful Douro Valley wine region , where the views will absolutely stun you.

1. Burmester

The Burmester story starts in 1750 in London , when Henry Burmester joined John Nash to establish the company Burmester, Nash & Co. They exported port to Europe . Then in the 1800s, Johann Burmester took the company to new heights in Porto, and it’s been operated as a family business ever since, though now it’s part of the Sogevinus brand.

In the 1990s, they started producing table wines as well.

You can tour the Burmester cellars. They offer a classic (13€), premium (17€), and exclusive (20€) visit, where you will taste 2-3 of their ports. They also have a large shop where you can purchase any bottles you enjoy.

Website: https://burmester.pt/en/caves/ Email: [email protected] Hours: Open everyday from 10am-1pm, 2pm-7pm

2. Cálem Port House

Calem is located front and center along the Cais de Gaia (the main road that runs through the lower waterfront area of Vila Nova de Gaia).

Calem is one of the largest port cellars. They offer many options for visitors to enjoy. A typical tour & tasting includes an interactive museum, a guided tour of the cellar and either a standard tasting for €14 or premium tasting for €17.

There are then options to add a Fado show or to add a food tasting to go along with your wine (chocolate, cheese & chocolate, or food pairings). The tours operate regularly throughout the day in various languages and last about 45 minutes. The Fado show is only offered at 6:30pm.

There is an English tour that culminates in a tasting room where you’ll enjoy a 30-minute performance of traditional Fado music. The current cost is €23. You can book your tour and pay for your tickets directly through their online form.

Website:  https://tour.calem.pt/#en Email: [email protected] Purchase tickets in advance on their website

3. Kopke Port House

Kopke is the next tasting room you’ll come upon along the Cais de Gaia. It is the oldest port wine house, originally opened in the 1600s. They don’t offer a tour, but they have a menu full of choices for tasting, including some really nice wine flights that are paired with chocolates. The flights range from €25 to €75 or you can buy by the glass.

The flights include DOC table wines made by Kopke, in addition to Port. You’ll choose your tastings downstairs and then find a seat upstairs in the lounge. Kopke is very famous for their vintage and aged Tawny ports, but don’t overlook their table wines.

Website: https://sogevinus.com/en/tourism/kopke-house/ Email: [email protected] Hours: Open every day. May – October 10am – 7pm / November – April 10am – 6pm

4. Sandeman Port House

It’s hard to miss the large building that houses Sandeman . The cloaked man on top of the building is a great brand emblem. At Sandeman, you can take a tour and do a tasting. You can also just grab a seat outside and enjoy one of the cocktails they’re making on the patio. I highly recommend a port & tonic.

They offer a classic tour that includes a tour and tasting of Ruby and Tawny Ports for €14. The premium visit is €17 and includes a tasting of 3 ports. Their 1790 visit includes a more in-depth look at the facilities and a tasting of 5 unique Ports for €23. And there are a few other options if you want something more unique.

They also have port wine workshops you can take, and a great shop inside where you can buy just about any port or DOC table wine you like.

• Website: https://www.sandeman.com/port-wine/visit/cellars-porto/
• Email: [email protected]
• Hours: Open every day. March-October 10-12:30 and14:00-18:00 / November-February 9:30-12:30 and 14:00-17:30

5. Quinta do Noval Port House

Along the waterfront, you’ll find a couple of small tasting rooms for Port Houses that have their main production and aging facilities in the Duoro Valley. Quinta do Noval is one of them. It’s just a wine shop and bar with a couple of tables to sit at, plus outdoor seating during the summer. But it’s not to be overlooked!

This is a great choice when you’ve heard the same tour over and over and want to try the port without the tour. You can choose tastings flights, or have a full glass, and even half or full bottles of Port.

• Website: https://www.quintadonoval.com/en/our-wines
• Email:  [email protected]
• Hours: Open every day. June – September 10am – 8pm / August 11am to 10pm / October – May 10:30am – 6:30pm

6. Vasconcellos Port House

You may not have heard of the Vasconcellos port house before. It’s part of the Christie’s brand and they don’t market their port tours, like some of the port houses do. They actually don’t do organized tours, and only invite you in if you’re interested in buying.

However, you’ll be treated to a smaller, more intimate, tour than at the larger houses and you’ll learn quite a bit about the process they use for blending the more than century-old ports they have aging in their cellar to create the 10, 20 and 40-year ports they make.

We were guided around by Jorge Silva, who took great pride in the port that he was telling us about. We had a very informative tour of the cellar and then made our way up to the tasting room to give it a try. The tasting included a 10 and 20-year Tawny and a white port.

If you are looking for a 40-year port, they have that too.  We fell in love with their 20-year (the bottle and all) and had to take some back with us.

You can just approach the cellar door and inquire about tastings in person.

Website:   https://www.christiewines.com/visit Email:   [email protected]

7. Vasques D Carvalho

Located just around the corner from Ramos Pinto is the brand house and tasting room of Vasques D Carvalho. Their cellars are located in Regua, in the Douro Valley . After tasting ports at many of the larger houses on the main street, we were very pleasantly surprised by the tasting here.

You can find a seat in the garden and choose your preferred tasting from an extensive menu. We chose a Tawny tasting that included their 10, 20, 30, and 40 year Tawny. Very good decision!

Everything we tried here was fantastic. They age their wines in the Douro, not in Porto, so you’ll find they can achieve aging slightly faster than those that age in Porto, due to the heat differences.

You don’t need a booking to stop in for a tasting, though it might be a good idea to make one during busy months.

Website: https://www.vasquesdecarvalho.com/ Email: [email protected]

8. Ramos Pinto Port House

Housed in a beautiful yellow building, founded by Adriano Ramos Pinto in 1880, Ramos Pinto stands out among the Port houses on the main street. A tour of the cellars also includes a visit through the cellar’s museum that houses a collection of art and items from the house’s long history.

The tour ends with a tasting of two Port wines, a ruby and a tawny, which are presented in a large, yet comfortable lounge area with couches and barrels for tables. You can schedule a visit at the reception area just inside. They give regular tours in English. The last tour takes place an hour before closing.

You can book through their online form.

• Website: https://www.ramospinto.pt/en/visits/
• Email:  [email protected]
• Hours: Every day from 10 am to 6 pm (closed 1 January, Easter Sunday, 24 and 25 December).

9. Taylor’s Port House

Taylor’s wine cellar is now in its fourth century of operation, which in itself is a major accomplishment. The story of Taylor’s is very interesting and well worth learning about. The porthouse is located up a fairly steep hill, so be prepared for a bit of a hike.

From Ramos Pinto, head up the alley and continue up the hill until you reach Taylor’s on the right. Tours at Taylor’s are mostly self-guided now, though you can book a private tour in advance if you want.

There is no need to schedule an audio tour in advance. You can walk through and listen to the history and details of the Taylor family and winery at your own pace, in many languages, while looking at the displays and barrels throughout the cellar and museum, which have been recently renovated.

It costs €15. At the end of the tour, you’ll have a tasting of two of Taylor’s ports: Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage (LBV). You’ll want to schedule for at least an hour or two to wander through the cellar and finish the tasting. The last tour takes place an hour before closing.

Website:  https://taylor.pt/en/visit-taylors/port-cellars/ Hours: Every day 11:00 – 20:00

10. Cockburn Port House

Cockburn is located slightly farther and also up the very steep hill. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Taylor’s, though at around the same elevation. If you’re taking the Hop-on-Hop-off bus tour around town, there is a convenient stop right outside Cockburn’s door.

The tour takes you through the cellar and the stacks upon stacks of aging barrels. Once a family estate, Cockburn is now owned by the Symington Family that also owns other Port cellars, such as Graham’s and Dow’s. They specialize in median level wines that are approachable. The tasting includes a young ruby and a 10-year tawny.

Email: [email protected]

11. Graham’s Port House

Graham’s Port House , opened in 1890, is located the furthest away from the others. It’s on the hillside, about a 15 minute walk from Taylor’s. You can enjoy lunch or a drink at the bar in Graham’s restaurant, Vinum, which helps make the trip there worthwhile, especially if you’re walking. Just remember that it’s a very steep hill.

Another aspect that makes it worthwhile is the incredible view. A tour can be booked in advance online, which makes it easy to fit into your schedule without walking all the way there to find out their hours. If you’d rather not take a tour, there’s a wine bar in Vinum where you can taste some of Graham’s Port by the glass.

Website:  Book your visit online.

Tips For Port Wine Tasting & Porto Wine Cellar Tours

• Most of the port houses require advanced reservations to taste and there are a limited number of spots for English tours, so be sure to book well in advance, not just the day before.
• Keep in mind that port is quite a bit higher in alcohol than regular table wine. Instead of 14%, it’s more like 21%. This can catch up with you fast. It’s best to do no more than 3 tastings spread throughout the day. And always drink plenty of water in between.
• Many of the port houses are located right along the waterfront in Vila Nova de Gaia, so you can easily walk between them. A few, like Graham and Taylor’s, are located up on the hill behind, which is quite steep, so be sure to wear walking shoes .
• Be sure to save time for a wine-paired lunch at one of the top houses, like Taylor’s or Grahams. Both have fantastic terraces that overlook the city.
• Many wine cellars have shops where you can purchase a variety of Port wines and related products. This is an excellent opportunity to buy a bottle of Port as a souvenir or gift.
• The majority of the wine cellar tours include a guided tour of the facilities, explaining the winemaking process, the history of the brand, and the aging of the wine in large wooden barrels. These visits often conclude with a wine tasting where you can sample different types of Port wine.

Where to Eat in Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia

Three of my favorite places to eat in Vila Nova de Gaia are all within easy walking distance of each other. If you’re staying in the city, you’ll be able to enjoy these and so many more without worrying about transportation.

• The Gastronomic Restaurant at The Yeatman is also highly recommended during your stay.  The chef’s tasting menu with wine pairings is a great food experience. It is a bit pricey, but that’s to be expected at a 2-Michelin-star restaurant. We also had a really good Francesinha sandwich at the bar in the hotel.
• Taylor’s Wine House is one of the few cellars that also has a restaurant where you can enjoy a leisurely wine lunch or dinner with a wine tasting. In nice weather, the outdoor terrace has an amazing view of the Douro River.
• Wine Quay Bar is across the water on the Porto side, but it’s still very easy to get to. You won’t regret the choice because view will blow you away. Stop by there for a wine flight and some tapas.

Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal

If you’re looking for a recommendation on where to stay while you’re in Porto, we’ve got you covered. We’ve stayed in numerous parts of the city and have found our favorite Porto hotels that we’ll return back to again and again. Below are our top choices. There’s really no reason to look any further. These are fantastic.

I n Vila Nova de Gaia:

• The Yeatman Hotel : Gorgeous hotel on the top of the hill with an amazing view, decanter-shaped pool, and a Michelin star restaurant. ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor .
• YourOpo Ribeira Gaia Apartments : There are a few apartments available here with amazing views, right near everything. It’s a perfect if you want a kitchen! ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor .

Frequently Asked Questions on Porto, Port Houses & Wine Cellars

Do i need to make reservations for a wine cellar tour.

It’s advisable to make reservations, especially during the high tourist season. Some cellars may have limited availability for tours and tastings, so booking in advance ensures you get a spot.

What is the best way to get from Porto to the Douro Valley wine region?

You can reach the Douro Valley by taking a train, bus, or organized tour from the Porto district. The train journey is particularly scenic, offering picturesque views of the Douro Valley River and vineyards.

Are there any wine festivals or events in Porto?

Porto hosts various wine-related events throughout the year, such as the Essência do Vinho wine festival, Port Wine Day celebrations, and wine-themed tours. Check local event listings for specific dates.

Is it possible to ship Port wine home from Porto?

Many wine cellars offer international shipping, so you can purchase authentic Port wine during your visit and have it shipped to your home address. Some wineries may have restrictions or require a minimum purchase for shipping.

Can I visit the vineyards in the Douro Valley from Porto?

Yes, it’s possible to visit the Douro Valley vineyards as a day trip from Porto. You can join guided wine tours that take you to the vineyards, allowing you to learn about the winemaking process and the grapes used in the winemaking. You can also enjoy the stunning scenery whilst tasting wine.

Before You Go

Since you made it to the end of this article, you’re probably pretty interested in Porto and the surrounding area. Here are a few more articles we think you might enjoy.

• Where To Stay In Porto, Portugal
• Where To Eat And Drink In Porto, Portugal
• 10 Fun Things To Do In Porto
• How To Spend 10 Days in Portugal

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Related Posts:

• 21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World
• 13 Unconventional Things To Do in Washington DC
• 36 Best Beach Drinks to Order at All-Inclusive Resorts (+ Recipes!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

19 thoughts on “ 11 Port Houses to Visit in Porto ”

Thank you for this helpful information.

It’s made our trip a little easier and more enjoyable.

Kind regards, Liam Hardy

Last week we stayed in Porto. And als I read the above we made the good choices to visit for example Offley… IT was very nice! Kind regards from The Netherlands, Carla

Offley is a great one! I just love how close together they all are and you can really just stop off wherever you like along the way. Glad you had a nice time there.

Visited Offley in driving rain last year. We also took a train ride up the Douro valley, which was excellent . Going to Porto again next month. Very much looking forward to visiting several more port houses, as well as the Yeatman.

That’s funny. We ran from Offley down the hill to Ramos Pinto in the driving rain. We were drenched by the time we got there. Hope you enjoy your next trip there. I can’t wait to go back.

Thank you! This info is invaluable and will help us plan our self-guided Porto port tour. 🙂

Glad to hear it, Rob! Enjoy your trip.

What were the average prices for the tastings/tours? Do they vary greatly depending on which port house you go to?

Hi Rachel. I would say currently the average price is around €10 (give or take). For instance, Calem is €10, Taylor’s is €12. Prices do vary. May of the port houses now offer the ability to book tickets online too, which is very useful.

Laura- we are visiting Porto for one day in May on a cruise ship. I want to experience the port houses, do tastings within reason( meaning I will need to pace consumption so I remember the experience!), and have a fabulous lunch. In your opinion do I need to hire a guide to maximize efficiency? Any suggestions appreciated. Have you also gone on tours in the Douro valley to visit where the port is actually made?

Hi Paula, it’s super easy to do port tastings on your own along the main street in Villa Nova de Gaia. You can get there quickly from the cruise ship and then you can just walk around along the street and stop in where ever you want. I highly recommend Vasconcello. If there are any port houses that you absolutely want to visit, make sure you email them in advance and make an appointment. There’s no need at all to hire a guide.

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Hello I am planning a private party of 40 people for a gala dinner in a fine old port house with lots of atmosphere, for next may/june. What are your suggestions?

I would look at Calem first, then Taylor’s or Graham’s. They all have great facilities for a large dinner party, all are very beautiful.

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Musings of a Rover

Taylor’s Port Cellar Tours (Or How I Learned to Love Port)

Could I have found my drink? Do I belong in the 19th Century?

I had an unexpected (and amazing) realization while touring Portugal – I love Port. Yea. Port. That stuffy, old-fashioned drink you imagine British aristocrats knocked back in the 1800s. I didn’t see it coming but I’m oh so glad Port is now a thing in my life. And I can thank Taylor’s Port Cellar Tours for that.

How did I stumble upon this? Well, visiting a Port Wine Lodge is probably the number one thing to do in Porto. And even though, technically, the lodges are located in Vila Nova de Gaia (the town across the river from Porto), I was not going to pass up visiting one of the lodges during my own visit to Porto.

But before I give you more details on my visit to Taylor’s, let’s answer the question that was lingering in my mind before I signed up for a tour…

What is Port?

Yea…I signed up for a tour of a Port Wine Lodge with only the fuzziest ideas of what Port actually was. A wine, right? But I came out of the tour with a much greater understanding.

Yes, Port is a wine (nailed that one!). In fact it’s actually a “fortified” wine which means they add a spirit or brandy to the wine to stop fermentation. This gives Port its sweeter, richer taste. And a higher alcohol content.

Port is produced in the Douro Valley (northeastern Portugal), an area that has turned out wines for 2,000 years. What is known as Port though didn’t get its name till the 17th century. And even though it comes from the Douro Valley, it actually gets its name from Porto, the city near the coast where its exported from.

So… Port . Port o. Port ugal. Yep, I’m seeing a trend.

Historically, Port was carried down the Douro in boats but these days, it travels overland in trucks. (You can still see replicas of these boats docked in the River by Porto for us tourists to take pictures of.) The wine is then unloaded into the Lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia (across the river from Porto) where they are aged, bottled, and shipped out.

But while all this history is nice, let’s get to the good stuff. The fun part of Port is the different styles. And if you dislike one style, chances are you might like another one. The difference between the styles comes down to how they are aged. Most are aged in wooden casks – but even the size of the cask makes a HUGE difference – and others are aged in bottles. And then how long it’s aged also plays a big role.

So let me try to break down the main styles of Port (these are also the styles we tasted and/or learned about at Taylor’s).

These Ports are full, rich, and fruity (and my personal favorite). They are aged in large oak casks. This causes them to retain more of their red coloring since contact with air changes the flavor and appearance of the wine. In a bigger cask, the air to wine ratio is much lower, and so Port retains more of its deep red color.

There are three levels to these types of Port:

• Ruby: aged in a large cask for 2-3 years
• Reserve: aged longer than a standard Ruby and is therefore considered to be of a higher quality
• Late Bottled Vintage (LBV): aged for 4-6 years in a large cask and has a rich, fruity flavor. This will be the closest experience to drinking a Vintage. Fun Fact! Taylor’s claims they were the first to develop this style.

These Ports are aged for long periods of time in small casks. Because the cask is smaller, more of the port comes into contact with the air, and the Port ages faster. A Tawny will become lighter, more amber, in color as it ages. Tawnys are usually aged for 10, 20, 30, or 40 years. Some Port Wine Lodges offer Tawnys that are aged for much longer though. While we were at Taylor’s they had a Tawny (sold out), that had been aged for over a hundred years.

Flavors in a Tawny can include nuttiness, butterscotch, and a woodiness.

White Ports are made from white grapes and are only aged for 2-3 years in large vats. These Ports can be sweeter or drier. The first dry white Port was actually Taylor’s own Chip Dry. This was my least favorite.

Now I didn’t get to try a Vintage (very expensive) but it is considered one of the best Port styles. So what makes Vintages the best? They represent the best product from an amazing, singular year. And not every year is a declared vintage. From what I remember maybe a quarter to a third of years are declared Vintages.

Vintages are also aged quite differently than the above types of Port. First they are aged in large casks (like a Ruby) for only 2 years. Then they spend the remainder of their years in bottles. For a very, long time. Like you buy a Vintage and then you let it sit in your cellar for 20-40 years. Then you decant it (fancy) and drink it over a short period of time – like in one night at a party.

Taylor’s Port Wine Lodge

Okay now that we actually know what Port is, let’s get back to Taylor’s. Now why did I choose Taylor’s? First Lonely Planet mentioned the Lodge has great views of Porto and offers three high quality Port tastings in the cost of their tour. Then I wanted a Port Wine Lodge that was off the riverfront and (hopefully) a little less crowded since it’s a hike up the hill. And lastly, I wanted to visit one of the older and more traditional lodges. And since Taylor’s was established in 1692, it’s a pretty respected producer.

Now maybe some of you are thinking…Port is from Portugal and the name of this Lodge is Taylor’s? Doesn’t that sounds too…English-y?

Well, I’m glad you asked. So you see, historically, the English and the French were not friends. And they fought each other a lot. And when there was a war going on and the Brits still wanted to get their wine on, they had to look for something other than French wine. Enter Portugal and the Douro Valley. And so English backed companies set up shop in Porto and that’s why many of them have English sounding names. Like Taylor’s.

So after a lunch at the wonderful Restaurante Flor dos Congregados  we headed across the river and up the hill to Taylor’s. And I do mean up the hill. It’s quite a hike. But sadly after arriving at the Lodge and standing in a brief line, we learned that the tickets for the next English tour (starting in 10 minutes) had just sold out and we would have to wait 90 minutes for the next English one. But since my Portuguese skills were limited and we probably wouldn’t understand a word of the Portuguese tour, we decided to head to the terrace to wait it out. Luckily they let us take one of our tastings (the Chip Dry – a white Port) with us.

After learning that White Port is probably not my thing (and spending a fair amount of time playing with my camera on the terrace), our tour started.

The tour was very informative and quickly went over the history of Port and where/how it’s produced. Fun fact: apparently stomping the wine with your feet is still a thing they do (or make tourists pay money to do) in the Douro Valley. And you stomp for a long time. Like hours upon hours. 10 minutes of stomping? Sure! 4 hours of stomping? Ummmmmmm….

After showing us a map of the Douro and watching a brief video on the above stomping, we were brought back among the casks to get a more thorough understanding on the types of Port Taylor’s specializes in.

And just what is Taylor’s known for? Well for one, their Vintages. Yep that expensive, let it age for 30 years in my cellar Port. But while I doubt I’ll ever try a Vintage, Taylor’s also claims to be the original inventor (and benchmark) of the LBV – a type of ruby port that’s the closest you’ll ever get to drinking a Vintage. Without, you know, actually drinking a Vintage.

We followed our guide as we were taken among the large and small casks that were currently doing their aging duty before being taken back to the tasting room (or Library room as they call it). Here we were given our last two Port tastings – an LBV and a 10 year old Tawny.

Ryan and I decided to take our tastings out to the garden and laze in the sun as we sipped. The Tawny to me was sweet. Almost too sweet. But the LBV was just right. Sweet, rich, and fruity. It felt thicker than the Tawny but I liked that. It was a drink I could see myself sipping slowly by a roaring fireplace.

We lingered in the garden, even after most others returned to the tasting room to deposit their empty glasses. I wanted to savor our tastings. But finally, as the sun started to set, we left Taylor’s and headed back to Porto.

I’ve had Port only once since returning from Portugal. A sad state of affairs. But I hope in the future to make my vision come true. Me. A glass of Port. Roaring fireplace. Cabin tucked into a snowy woods….that’s not too much to ask for, right?

– Have you ever tried Port?-

Nitty gritty.

Interested in visiting Taylor’s Port Cellars ?

Schedule : There is no fixed schedule. Instead, tours leave every 30-40 minutes and you don’t need a reservation. Taylor’s does offer English tours but they are staggered throughout the day. Keep in mind that the last tour leaves about an hour before closing, so don’t wait until the end of the day.

Price : €7 per person

Tasting s: When you pay for a tour, you’ll also get to taste three high-quality Ports: Chip Dry – Extra Dry White, Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), and Tawny 10 year old.

Hours : Monday to Friday: 10am to 6pm, Saturday-Sunday: 10am to 5pm.

Location :  Rua do Choupelo nº 250, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

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Lodges & Cellars

Taylor Fladgate Port wine cellars in the heart of the historic area of Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river from the old city centre of Oporto, house most of the company’s extensive reserves of wood aged Port as well its Vintage Port cellars. The cellars are long cool, dark warehouses, their thick granite walls and high ceilings helping to keep out the heat and maintain an even temperature throughout the year.

This ensures that the wines age slowly, gradually acquiring the sublime complex flavours and aromas of maturity. 

Wines in the cellars age either in cask or in vat. Casks are seasoned oak barrels usually holding around 630 litres of wine.  They are used mainly to age Tawny Ports, in particular the smooth and mellow 10, 20, 30 and 40 Year Old Tawnies of which Taylor Fladgate is the leading producer. Cask ageing encourages contact between the wine and the wood and intensifies the ageing process. The rich and complex aromas of maturity, such as notes of butterscotch, walnut and fine oak wood, therefore develop more quickly in a cask.

Oak vats normally hold at least 20,000 litres of wine. In these impressive vessels, there is less contact between the Port and the wood.   This method of ageing is therefore used mainly for the fruitier styles of Port where the wood ageing is intended to give the wine smoothness and a degree of complexity but allow it to retain its youthful structure and freshness. Wines such as Taylor Fladgate’s First Estate Reserve or LBV are both aged in vat.

The thousands of wooden vessels lying in the Taylor Fladgate Port cellars are maintained by a team of specialist coopers whose job it is to look after and repair the casks and vats and make new ones if necessary.

While Port matures in wood, a small proportion is lost each year to evaporation. The part which evaporates – commonly known as the ‘angel’s share’ – is composed of moisture and spirit.  As a result, the aromatic components which remain in the wine gradually become more concentrated as it ages. This accounts in part for the very rich and concentrated flavours which can be found in the older Tawny Ports.  The evaporation of the spirit causes the development of the black ’Angel’s share fungus’, Baudoinia compniacensis, on the roof tiles of the lodges, making it easy to see from the air where the wine is stored.

Below the cellars, are the tunnels which house the Vintage Port cellars. Here the Vintage Ports age in bottle, lying horizontally to keep the corks moist.  When the time comes to ship them, the bottles are removed from the cellar to be labelled and placed in wooden cases.

Taylor Fladgate Port cellars in Vila Nova can be visited throughout the year.  The visit can be made even more enjoyable by a lunch in the Barão Fladgate restaurant next to the lodges or a stay at The Yeatman, the luxurious 5 star hotel located a few steps away just across the road.

In former times nearly all the Port was brought down the river from the Douro Valley to the lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia in the spring following the harvest.  This was to avoid exposing the wine to the dry summer heat of the Douro which would cause the wine to age too quickly and develop the roasted flavours known as ‘Douro bake’.  Nowadays, with modern building insulation and air moisturising techniques, it is possible to replicate the cool, damp conditions of Vila Nova de Gaia in the Douro.  This has been successfully achieved in the modern ageing lodges at Quinta da Nogueira where some Taylor Fladgate Ports are now aged.  These insulated warehouses are located on the windy uplands close to the town of São João da Pesqueira and the environment is kept cool and moist by spraying tiny particles of water into the air through jets fitted to the interior walls of the buildings.

Visit Taylor Fladgate Our Cellars

Learn about the history of Port wine and its production today, the Douro Valley and the house of Taylor Fladgate.

Visit Taylor Fladgate Barão Fladgate Restaurant

Make the most of your trip to the Taylor Fladgate's cellars by accompanying your visit with a sumptuous lunch or dinner at our Barão Fladgate Restaurant.

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• THE RESTAURANT
• RESERVATION
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BARÃO FLADGATE RESTAURANT

Indulge your senses in one of porto’s favourite restaurants.

Menu Taylor´s

A glass of taylor's to match each dish.

Children's Menu

For children from 4 to 12 years old.

Vegetarian Dishes

Surprising options.

À La Carte Menu

Choose your favourite dish.

Wine Dinner 20 Sep

A one-of-a-kind experience.

Make your online reservation

The Restaurant

Barão Fladgate Restaurant enjoys a spectacular location and atmospheric setting in the grounds of Taylor’s Port cellars with magnificent views across the Douro River to the old historic centre of Porto. It offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional cuisine where the accent is on fresh local ingredients and on showcasing the authentic flavours of Portugal.

The wine list features a wide variety of labels from the main Portuguese vineyard areas and, as would be expected, a comprehensive choice of both wood-aged and Vintage Ports.

Named after John Fladgate, the celebrated 19th century Port shipper and partner of Taylor’s who was awarded the title of Baron for his services to viticulture, the Barão Fladgate restaurant celebrates 20 years of inspiring fine cuisine and excellent service.

Reservations

Our restaurant has a private room perfect for more intimist events. with 84.7 m2 and 3m high, it is a very cosy space with direct access to the garden..

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Your safety and well-being are of the utmost importance to us, and for this reason, we have rethought all of our procedures in order to welcome you back safely.

Rua do Choupelo, 250 4400-088 - Vila Nova de Gaia

932 110 694 [email protected]

The Best Port Wine Houses to Visit in Porto, Portugal

Are port wine houses worth visiting?

Port wine tasting in Porto is a must-do and an extremely rewarding experience.  Although port tastings are available all around the city of Porto, it is best to taste port at one of the original port wine houses of  Vila Nova de Gaia  across the River Douro from the old city center of Porto. You will immerse into the history of port wine production, taste different styles of port wine, and enjoy great views. 

Port wine is a big part of Portuguese culture and history.  Although the cellars are refurbished, most port wine houses still use original buildings, some equipment and follow traditional methods to make port.  

Visiting port lodges is also very educational.  The port wine production and blending are fascinating and complex.  There are several different ways to make port wine, and different styles of ports, which will be explained in detail.  

During your visit, you will see the huge wooden vats (toneis), very old oak barrels (barricas) holding decades-old port wines, and bottle ageing cellars.  At the end of the tour, you will be offered to taste different styles of port wine.  

Even if you are not into a formal tasting or a guided tour of cellars, it’s a great idea to come and sip a glass of port on a terrace with a view.  

By the way, you are not limited to port wine only –  at some houses you can have dry wines. For example, at  Graham’s , Porto Cruz, Ferreira, and Cálem dry wines are either included in one of the visit packages or can be tasted by the glass.

On a good day, I recommend combining your visit with lunch at a port lodge. Graham’s and Taylor’s have restaurants with excellent views named  Vinum  and  Barão Fladgate .

How to visit port wine cellars?

To taste port wine head over across the River Douro from the old city center of Porto in Vila Nova de Gaia.  

To get there you only need to cross the Dom Luís I bridge.  Alternatively, take a boat across the river from Porto to Gaia for 3 euros per person.

All port wine houses are clustered in the same area within only 10 minutes walk between them.

Map of port wine cellars

Here is the map of port wine lodges created by  IVDP  – Institute of Wines of Douro and Porto.  Generally, port wine houses are very well marked, they are very easy to find.

Do I need a reservation or can I walk-in?

Simple tastings are often available on a walk-in basis, however, in my experience, it is better to book guided tours and tastings in advance.

This is especially recommended if you would like a more advanced tasting option, a workshop, or a food and wine pairing experience.

Another important thing to note is that English language tours run several times per day depending either on a schedule that changes according to the season and demand. For example, English tours can be offered at 11 am and then at 4 pm.  Therefore, some advanced planning will be necessary.

I recommend visiting at least one of the port cellars with a guided tour, while at others you can go directly to a tasting.  Allow approximately 1 hour for a standard guided tour with tasting.

Most of the cellar tours are offered in small groups.

I found that is easy to book visits to port wine houses at GetYourGuide  or Viator rather than emailing or calling.

Here are some quick links to book your visits at port wine cellars:

• Burmester’s

If you are visiting several port lodges and other attractions in Porto, the  Porto Card  can save you a few euros.  They give a  10% to 50% discount on tastings and wine purchases at several port lodges including Cálem, Sandeman, Ferreira, Graham’s, Taylor’s, Ramos Pinto, Real Companhia Velha, Burmester, and Fonseca.

If you need a lunch break between your visits, there are multiple traditional Portuguese restaurants near the river, gastronomic restaurants at the port houses, and the WOW museum complex .

Cálem  and Fonseca wine houses offer a Fado program in their cellars which is a very neat experience.

Cálem Cellar Tour, Fado Show & Wine Tasting

Fonseca Cellar Tour, Dinner and Fado Show

The best port wine houses to visit

1. Graham's

Graham’s port wine lodge is located above most other famous port wine houses in Vila Nova Gaia across the river from Porto. 

It took me about 10 minutes and an easy short climb through the historic neighborhood of Gaia to reach Graham’s from the quays.

Graham’s brand is owned by Symington Family Estates.   Today, the business which also  owns other premium port brands including Cockburn’s and Dow’s is managed by 10 Symington family members . 

Since 2017, the Symington Family Estates are the official supplier of port wine to the British royal court. 

Graham’s offers guided tours of the historic cellars followed by a tasting of port wines.  

A guided tasting is held in a spacious and bright main tasting room with a view of Porto and a barrel cellar, or a cozy Vintage Room in an atmosphere of a classic 19th-century salon with comfortable armchairs and books.  

You can upgrade the tasting options to include premium and rare ports as well as pairings with chocolate, cheese, and custard tart.

Symington Family Estates are also producing dry wines in the Douro Valley and the Alentejo regions available to taste at the wine bar or to buy at the boutique.   

A special treat is olive oil made from olives grown at Douro Valley vineyards.  

The tasting room, the boutique, and the restaurant are beautifully designed which adds to the experience.  

After the tasting, I would recommend staying a little longer on the terrace with excellent views on P orto and the Dom Luis I bridge.  Vinum Restaurant and Wine Bar is an excellent option for lunch or a casual drink.

Opening hours:  

Every day from 10 am to 7 pm.

Address: Rua do Agro 141, 4400-281 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

+351 223 776 490

Graham’s Port Lodge Guided Tour with Wine Tastings and Pairings

2. Taylor's

Taylor’s is next to the WOW museum complex and near the luxury Yeatman Hotel .

Established in 1692, Taylor’s is one of the oldest port houses. Today, Taylor’s brand is part of the portfolio of Fladgate Partnership owned by descendants of the Yeatman family who entered port trade in 1838. 

Taylor’s is well-known for its vintage ports and tawny ports.   The house is also known as the originator of my favorite Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) style port.

The guided tour of Taylor’s cellars with an audio guide is convenient as it is available any time during opening hours.  After you have walked through the cellars, you will be offered to taste two of Taylor’s iconic Port wines: Chip Dry – Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage.

Other than the tastings included in the tour, Taylors offers a wide menu of tasting options in its spacious tasting room or the classic garden with a pet peacock.  

I opted to have a glass of Taylor’s port on a beautiful terrace with amazing views of Porto.  

Just drop by Taylor’s shop and pick your tasting.  I found the atmosphere at Taylor’s very relaxed.  There is a lot of flexibility in their visits and tasting options.

The Barão Fladgate Restaurant located right next to the tasting room has excellent views.

Opening hours:

Cellars are open every day from 11 am to 6 pm. Tasting Room and Shop are open every day from 11 am to 7 pm. Restaurant: 12.30 pm to 3 pm, and from 7 pm to 10 pm.

Address:  Rua do Choupelo, 250, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia

+351 223 772 973

Save 10% on tour price with  Porto Card.

Port Wine Cellars Private Tour with Local Lunch

Cálem port house is the easiest to reach, it is right on the river bank and next to the Dom Luis I bridge.

Cálem is the most visited port house in Porto.  

Founded in 1859 by António Alves Cálem, the house was in the hands of the same family for generations before the ownership was passed to Sogevinus in 1998.

During a visit to Cálem, you will see the museum and the cellars followed by a tasting of two wines.  I upgraded the tasting to pairing with cheese and chocolate and it was a wonderful experience.

Cálem Cellar Tour, Interactive Museum & Wine Tasting

Cálem Cellar with Chocolate, Cheese, and Wine Tasting

Another interesting option is a visit with the fado show in the evening.  Listen to fado, while tasting port wine and looking at the Douro river.  Highly recommended!

Opening hours: April to October from 10 am to 7 pm November to March from 10 am to 6:30 pm.

Address: Avenida Diogo Leite, 344, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia

+351 223 746 672

Porto card discount – 10% on visits (standard and premium) and wine purchases (not applicable to chocolates and merchandising) from November to March and 2€ discount on “Fado in Porto”

4. Ferreira

The House of Ferreira was b uilt by a family of Douro winemakers in 1751, 

Dona Antonia Adelaide Ferreira is a Portuguese businesswoman behind the brand.   Often referred to in Portugal as “Ferreirinha”, she is  known for her leadership in the 19th-century port winemaking, but also for her kindness and intelligence. 

Dona Ferreira inherited many vineyards from her wealthy family.  Widowed at 33, Ferreira took over the business, invested in new vineyards, and became the first major importer of port wine to England.

The exposition at Ferreira has many historic artifacts including a replica of Dona Ferreira’s dress. 

You will be taken through an incredibly atmospheric cellar with vaulted ceilings, huge vats full of future tawny ports.  I found the tasting room tasteful and unpretentious, and the overall experience at Ferreira very authentic.  Ferreira port wine is known as “the Portuguese brand”.

The basic tasting includes three port wines, White, Ruby, and Tawny, which will be poured very generously.  You can also choose a more advanced tasting option or even select a port wine workshop where you will learn all about production, different categories, and tasting techniques of port wine.

Sogrape, the owner of Ferreira and the large Portuguese wine company, also produces Douro DOC dry table wines under the Casa Ferrerinha brand, including red and white Papa Figos, a brand which is very popular among locals.  If you prefer to taste dry wines, request the Casa Ferrerinha visit.

Every day from  10 am – 12:30 pm, and from 2 pm to 6 pm

Address: Avenida Ramos Pinto, 70, 4400-082 Vila Nova de Gaia

+351 223 746 106 

Porto card discount discount on Ferreira Visit – November to March: 30% discount – April to October: 10% discount

5. Burmester

Founded in 1750 by Henry Burmester and John Nash,  Burmester port wine located right by the iconic Dom Luis I bridge.  It is the closest port wine house to the downtown of Porto.

The house offers several tiers of tastings.   

I found the standard visit quite quick.  I would choose a premium visit next time.

Open every day from  10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 7 pm.  

Last visit at 6:15 pm.

Also, this boat tour includes a visit to Burmester cellars.  I thought it was a good value.

Bridges tour with Burmester wine cellar guided visit and tasting

Address: Largo Ponte Luiz I 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal T.  +351 913 288 994

Porto Card offers 10% discount on visits and wine at Burmester from April to November.

6. Cockburn's

Cockburn’s is the largest port cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia.  A steep climb up rua Serpo Pinto and you find yourself in a cozy shaded courtyard of Cockburn’s port lodge.  

Before the tour, have some drinks or snacks on a terrace or go straight to a porto tonic with some delicious Portuguese picnic food. 

Founded in 1815 by Robert Cockburn, a Scottish soldier and merchant, Cockburn’s quickly established itself as a prominent player in the port wine industry. 

Since 2006, the Symington Family Estates, one of the leading producers of Port acquired Cockburn’s.  The spirit of innovation that Symington is known for, transformed Cockburn’s lodge it into the most welcoming port lodge in Vila Nova de Gaia.  

The cellars you are going to see are so vast and well-kept.  

I love artistic concept of Cockburn’s with bright and fun labels and  their new port-based cocktail recipes.

Enjoy your visit!

April 1st to October 31st: Visits: 10am  – 5:30 pm (reservation required) Tastings: 10am – 7 pm  November 1st to March 31st:

Cockburn’s tour and tasting

Rua Serpa Pinto, 346 4400-307 Vila Nova de Gaia

The last but not least, Fonseca is a historic port wine lodge founded in 1840 proud to be the only port wine house with four 100-points port wines.  Perhaps, you have heard of their legendary Bin No.27 fruity and full-bodied port, which is included in their tasting. 

I think Fonseca offers very reasonable prices for visits. Families with children get additional discounts.  There are some activities for kids and teenagers with some cookies and juice tasting at the end of the visit.

Great news!  Recently, Fonseca has started the new Saturday night program. After a guided tour of the port cellars and the tasting, you will be invited to a special Portuguese dinner in the vat room accompanied by a live Fado concert .  Book your tickets here .

Monday through Sunday 11 am  – 7 pm

Fado dinner is at 7 pm every Sunday

Rua do Choupelo 84,  4400-187 Vila Nova de Gaia

The WOW Wine Experience

Port wine tasting in the douro valley.

Many of the port houses also offer visits at their Douro Valley  quintas (wine estates) welcoming visitors for tastings, guided tours, picnics and stays.

Following my numerous visits to the valley wineries, I collected a lot of useful information in my blog. 

In my article How to Visit Douro Valley Wineries I provide tips on selecting the best Douro Valley quintas to visit.

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Polina Spirova

A sommelier and a wine tour guide. I travel all around Portugal collecting the best wineries to visit, best places to stay and eat.

I organize wine tours in the Douro Valley.

My Douro Valley Travel Guides

Get your copy now, my douro valley blog.

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Best-rated Douro Valley Hotels

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