Random-osity: A Day in the Douro Valley

You can't go to Portugal and not experience the Port wine country in the Douro Valley! We spent a whole day on a guided tour of the historic region; we were on a semi-private tour with our amazing guide Alex and 2 other couples. We started the day in Amarante, a small town about 45 minutes outside of Porto. It is famous for the holding back Napoleon's troops in the 1809 wars and for a very interestingly shaped pastry created by the town's nuns (google it, for a laugh!). We had a little time to wander around and enjoy the town square and grab some coffee.

We then headed through the mountains into the Douro Valley to our first vineyard, Coimbra De Mattos. This was a quaint spot with gorgeous stone buildings covered in ivy. Here, in the cellar, we tasted a 10, 20, and 30 year old tawny port and learned how this winery produces their reserves. We also had a lovely lunch on the terrace (under a tent thankfully due to the rain!) and enjoyed the views. After lunch, we walked over to Ferdinand Magellan's house (yes, the explorer!) He was lost at sea on a Spanish conquest but his house still stands in Sabrosa.

We left Sabrosa and continued into the valley, stopping at some overlooks to take in the regions true beauty. We then went down to the Douro River for a boat cruise. Before the trains were brought out to the valley, the port had to be shipped down the river to Porto for distribution to the world. The river is not easy to navigate and many many tons of port wine sunk to the bottom, so the trains were a big addition to the region!

We then made our way to the last stop of the day at Quinta do Panascal. This winery was high on a hill and days away from their harvest. The chief winemaker gave us a tour of the tubs where they still press the grapes with their legs and talked about how they make their vintages. We then tasted 3 varieties they make and enjoyed the views from their chalet.

We then headed back into Porto after a wonderful day out in the country. If you ever go to Portugal and enjoy wine, this is a must do experience truly unique to Portugal!