Douro Valley: Rabelo Boat Tour with Port Wine & Audio Guide

Quinta do Bomfim, acquired by George Warre for Dow's in 1896, sits in the "well-placed valley" near Pinhão, a legacy continued by the Symington family since 1912. Positioned in the Upper Douro Valley, the estate benefits from a transitional climate and south-facing schist terraces, vital for producing Dow's distinguished Vintage Ports. The vineyard's grapes are processed at an on-site winery, where traditional foot-treading in modern lagares honors centuries-old winemaking practices, ensuring the continued excellence of their Ports.

Quinta de Ventozelo, steeped in history, traces back to Cistercian monks who initiated port wine production in the Douro Valley. Its evolution, from a mention in 1288 to its acquisition by Gran Cruz in 2014, reflects its status as one of the Douro's most significant estates. Today, Ventozelo is renowned for its commitment to wine diversity and sustainable tourism, while preserving its authenticity. Situated in a stunning location, the estate offers a tranquil retreat into nature, where time slows, and the starlit nights are unforgettable.

Quinta da Romaneira's storied past begins in the 18th century, gaining prominence in the 19th century with accolades from notable figures and recognition at Christie's auctions. The 20th century saw expansion under Arnaldo Dias Monteiro de Barros, further enlarging its territory. The 21st century brought rejuvenation through Christian Seely and André Esteves, enhancing its stature. Today, Romaneira, with its historical vineyards like Liceiras and Carrapata, showcases the excellence of its terroir, embodying over 260 years of distinguished winemaking.

Barragem do Tua (Tua Dam), a marvel of engineering in the Douro Valley, majestically spans the Tua River. This modern dam, completed in 2016, stands as a testament to Portugal's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development. Rising 108 meters high, it creates a serene reservoir that enhances the region's landscape. The dam not only generates hydroelectric power but also serves as a scenic backdrop for river cruises, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and hills. As you sail by, marvel at this impressive structure that harmonizes modern engineering with the timeless beauty of the Douro Valley.

Quinta de Merouço - Casa do Rio offers an immersive experience, combining luxury accommodations with breathtaking views of the river and vineyards. The vineyards benefit from diverse sun exposures and schistose soils, ideal for cultivating the region's traditional grape varieties. As you pass by this picturesque estate, you'll witness the meticulous care and centuries-old traditions that go into every bottle, capturing the essence of the Douro Valley's winemaking excellence.

Quinta dos Malvedos, a cornerstone of Graham's Vintage Ports since 1890, graces the slopes of the Douro River. This iconic estate, named after the historic 'Malvedos' rapids, spans 164 hectares and benefits from ideal sunlight and rainfall. The south-facing vineyards ensure perfectly ripened grapes, resulting in balanced wines. The estate features traditional terraced vineyards with 18th-century stone walls, giving its wines a unique character. Quinta dos Malvedos, a cultural landmark, was a filming location for "A Gaiola Dourada," showcasing its historical and natural beauty, embodying the essence of the Douro Valley.

Quinta das Tecedeiras, a seminal brand within the storied tapestry of the Douro, embraces a dual heritage: honoring the region's fortified wine tradition while pioneering the cultivation and promotion of non-fortified wines over the past two decades. Nestled in the world's oldest demarcated wine region, Tecedeiras is a poetic landscape of staggering beauty, from breathtaking vistas to the delicate interplay of scents that drift across its terraces—a vinous paradise to which Lima&Smith proudly contributes.

Quinta das Carvalhas, a quintessential icon of the Alto Douro, graces the slopes of the left bank of the Douro River, overlooking Pinhão. This majestic estate dominates the landscape from river to ridge, embodying centuries of winemaking heritage with written records dating back to 1759. The venerable vineyards, some over a century old, house a treasure trove of the region's ancient grape varieties, making Carvalhas a living repository of Douro viticulture. The vineyards of Quinta das Carvalhas, stretching from the riverbanks to the upper reaches of the slopes, enjoy a variety of exposures and are planted on steep, schistose hillsides, typical of mountain viticulture.