The Art of Port Wine Blending: How to Plan Your Tour in Vila Nova de Gaia

If you are a wine lover and planning to visit Portugal, a tour of Vila Nova de Gaia is a must-do activity. Vila Nova de Gaia is famous for its impressive collection of Port Wine cellars on the banks of the Douro River from where the magnificent city of Porto that lays across the water can be seen.

One of the highlights of your visit to Vila Nova de Gaia is undoubtedly the art of Port wine blending. In this blog, we will explain how you can plan your tour and experience the thrill of blending your own 20-year-old Port wine.

Experience

The tour offers a unique experience that will introduce you to the art of wine blending. With the help of our Port Wine Expert, you will learn about the different characteristics of wines, how to blend them to create a new flavor, and bottle your own blend to take home.

Highlights

The highlights of the tour are:

• Blend your own 20 Year Old Port Wine!
• Chill at our Lodge in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia
• Learn all about Port wines with our knowledgeable and passionate staff

Full Description

The tour takes place in a historical building in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, which dates back to 200 years. Originally, the building was used as a cooperage that manufactured barrels and casks for the Port houses in Vila Nova de Gaia. In the 1950s, with the increasing usage of stainless steel vats, the business was turned into a wooden box manufacturer until the ’90s when it was transformed into a Port wine ta

During the tour, our knowledgeable and passionate staff will take you through the history and production of Port wine, from planting the vines to bottling the final product. You will learn the difference between the different types of Port wine, the grape varieties used, and the unique terroir that produces the world-renowned drink.

After a brief introduction, you will be guided to our blending room, where you will have the opportunity to blend your own Port wine. With the help of our Port Wine Expert, you will taste different wines and experiment with blending them together to create your own unique blend. You will bottle your wine and take it home to enjoy with your loved ones.

If you are a lover of wine, spending the day blending your own Port wine is an experience that is not to be missed. Vila Nova de Gaia is home to some of the oldest and most respected Port wine cellars in the world, and this tour will give you an in-depth understanding of the history and production of Port wine.

Booking Your Tour

To book your tour to experience the art of port blending in Vila Nova de Gaia, please visit our trusted partners at getyourguide.com: book the tour here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning a tour to Vila Nova de Gaia to experience the art of Port wine blending is an excellent way to learn about the history and production of Port wine. The tour is suitable for both wine lovers and novices, and it provides the opportunity to blend your own Port wine, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. So book your tour today and take home a bottle of your very own 20-year-old Port wine blend that you can enjoy with your loved ones.

The Insider’s Guide to Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

Vila Nova de Gaia is a beautiful city located across the Douro River from Porto, Portugal. It is renowned for being the home of the world-famous Port Wine cellars that line the riverbank. While this is one of the biggest attractions, the city has so much more to offer. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the best destinations to make the most out of your visit to Vila Nova de Gaia.

Local Attractions

There are many must-see attractions in Vila Nova de Gaia, apart from the Port Wine Cellars themselves. Climb up the hill to the Jardim do Morro park and enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Douro River. Alternatively, stroll around the riverbank area and take a historical tram ride through the city. The cable car that runs along the waterfront provides breathtaking views of both Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto.

If you’re interested in history, the Gothic Monastery of Serra do Pilar, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is definitely worth a visit. This architectural masterpiece dates back to the 16th century and has been well-preserved.

You cannot miss out on visiting Cais de Gaia, where you can see the Rabelo boats. These are the traditional boats used for transporting barrels of port wine down the Douro River.

Dining Spots

Portuguese cuisine is well-known for its seafood and Vila Nova de Gaia has a lot to offer. Some of the best seafood restaurants include The Fisherman, Flor de Congregados, and Adega de São Nicolau. These restaurants are well esteemed for their fresh seafood dishes and excellent service.

For a more authentic, local experience, Mrs. Pipa is a trendy tapas bar where you can taste authentic Portuguese dishes. Additionally, the Dom Tonho is an excellent restaurant for wine lovers. It has a varied wine list and serves Portuguese cuisine with a contemporary twist.

Cultural Experiences

A cultural experience that should not be missed is the Douro River Valley tour. This guided tour provides you with exceptional views of the scenic Douro Valley and its vineyards. The tour provides a unique perspective on the wineries, grape harvesting, and wine-making processes. Best of all, you get to taste locally produced wines along the way.

Another cultural experience is a visit to the Glass Museum. It houses a collection of over 20,000 pieces of glassware. They showcase the evolution of the glass industry in Portugal and provide an insight into the influence of glassmaking on the local economy and culture.

Local History

Vila Nova de Gaia is full of historical experiences worth exploring, some of which date back to pre-Roman times. A visit to Municipal Museum of Vila Nova de Gaia located in the old town hall provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the city’s history.

The Augustus Bridge, built-in 1877, played an essential role in the transportation of Port wine between Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto. The bridge provides an iconic landmark and offers excellent photo opportunities for visitors.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Take a break from the bustling city and visit the tranquil Afurada fishing village. It’s located just across the Douro River from Vila Nova de Gaia and is home to the best seafood restaurants in the region. The Afurada Marina also provides a nice escape for boating enthusiasts.

Fancy a beach day? Praia de Valadares is a beautiful sandy beach located close to Vila Nova de Gaia and offers a peaceful retreat. If you prefer surfing, Praia do Cabedelo provides some of the best waves in the region.

Wrap Up

Vila Nova de Gaia is the perfect destination for travelers looking for stunning landscapes, rich history, and exceptional wines. The city offers so much to see and do, whether it’s exploring historical sites, winery visits, or simply indulging in fresh seafood cuisine. A visit to Vila Nova de Gaia is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture and make unforgettable memories.