Wine and Wanderlust in Douro Valley

A Day of Discoveries in Douro Valley

Today was another enchanting day in the Douro Valley, filled with the promise of new flavors and breathtaking views. Klaus and I set out early, eager to explore more of this stunning region. Each day here feels like uncovering a new layer of Portugal's rich tapestry, and today was no exception. We were ready to immerse ourselves in the local culture and, of course, sample some exquisite wines.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Cantina de Ventozelo. The restaurant is nestled within Quinta do Ventozelo in Ervedosa do Douro. The views from the outdoor dining area were simply stunning, overlooking the Douro Valley terraces. I savored the opportunity to try some local pastries filled with mixed vegetables, which reminded me of a cross between a croissant and a pot pie. Klaus enjoyed a hearty breakfast of local meats and cheeses. It was the perfect start to a day of exploring.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine and stunning views at Cantina de Ventozelo in Douro Valley.

With our appetites sated, we set off to our first destination: Quinta de Covela. Driving through the Douro Valley is an experience in itself; the winding roads offer panoramic views of terraced vineyards and the Douro River snaking through the landscape. It’s a feast for the eyes at every turn. As a horticultural consultant, I was particularly excited to visit Quinta de Covela, known for its commitment to organic farming.

Located in Baião, Quinta de Covela is a stunning terraced vineyard that sits on the border of the Minho and Douro regions. As we arrived, we were immediately struck by the beauty of the estate. The vineyards are arranged in a natural amphitheater, with the vines cascading down the hillsides. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of the surrounding nature. We learned that Quinta de Covela is particularly known for its Avesso grape, one of Portugal's celebrated white varietals.


Explore the beauty and flavors of Quinta de Covela, a must-visit vineyard in São Tomé de Covelas offering exquisite wines and breathtaking scenery.

Our tour guide, Orlando, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the winery's organic practices. He explained how they foster biodiversity across their vineyards, orchards, and kitchen gardens. It was fascinating to see how they integrate sustainable methods into every aspect of their winemaking process.

We had the opportunity to taste several of their wines, including the Covela Avesso, Covela Arinto, and Covela Rosé Touriga. Each wine was a testament to their dedication to quality and sustainability. I especially enjoyed the Avesso, with its bright, citric flavor and subtle mineral character. Klaus, ever the fan of rosé, found the Touriga to be particularly delightful. I was so impressed by their approach to winemaking, focusing on Portuguese grape varieties and organic methods.

Exploring the Douro Valley is not just about tasting wine; it's about experiencing the soul of Portugal.

After Quinta de Covela, we continued our journey to Quinta do Vesúvio. This estate has a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century. As we drove, I couldn't help but reflect on how much the Douro Valley has changed over the centuries, from the blasting of granite to make the river navigable to the planting of vineyards on the steep hillsides. It's a region that has always been shaped by the ingenuity and determination of its people.


Experience the magic of Quinta do Vesúvio, a stunning winery in the Douro Valley, where rich traditions meet breathtaking landscapes and exceptional wines.

Quinta do Vesúvio is located in the Douro Superior, the largest of the Douro subregions. The estate is known for its old-school methods, including using the original 1826 winery and granite lagares, where grapes are still stomped by foot. The winery exudes history and tradition, and you can feel the legacy in every corner.

We were greeted by Mariana Brito, one of the winemakers, who shared fascinating insights into their winemaking philosophy. She explained their commitment to preserving the estate's heritage while also embracing modern techniques to produce exceptional wines. We learned that Quinta do Vesúvio focuses on traditional grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, and Alicante Bouschet.

The tasting at Quinta do Vesúvio was a truly special experience. We sampled the Vesúvio Douro, a chocolatey wine with notes of hazelnut and cherry. I found it approachable and well-balanced, with a sweet-and-sour core that made it incredibly enjoyable. We also had the opportunity to taste their Vintage Port, which was rich with raisin and currant notes, along with hints of bittersweet chocolate. It was the perfect way to end our visit, savoring the flavors of this iconic estate.

Before dinner, we stopped by PORTOLOGIA - La Maison des Port for a little shopping. I was hoping to find a unique bottle of Port to bring back home to Heidelberg. The shop had a wide selection of Ports from independent producers, and the staff was incredibly knowledgeable. I ended up purchasing a 20-year-old Tawny Port, which I thought would be perfect for a special occasion. Klaus, on the other hand, picked up a bottle of vintage Port to add to his collection.


Discover PORTOLOGIA - La Maison des Port, where exceptional local wines and a cozy atmosphere await in Vila Nova de Gaia.

For dinner, we chose Douro Velho in Vila Nova de Gaia, a restaurant with lovely views of the Douro. We shared a delicious meal of traditional Portuguese dishes, including Pão de alho and Mexilhão ao vinagrete. The ambiance was perfect, and the food was delightful. It was a wonderful way to relax and reflect on our day of discoveries.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Douro Velho with stunning river views and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for any dining occasion.

As the sun set over the Douro Valley, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had here. This region is more than just a wine destination; it's a place of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. I'm so glad that Klaus and I decided to embark on this adventure together.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fundação da Casa de Mateus and Quinta da Pacheca. I'm particularly excited to see the gardens at Casa de Mateus, which I've heard are absolutely stunning. We'll also enjoy a wine tasting at Quinta da Pacheca and perhaps find another hidden gem to share with you all. And in the evening, we are planning to visit Adega Wine Bar for a nightcap.

Until then, prost from the Douro Valley!