Eric M, Okt. 2017
My wife and I booked this tour while visiting Porto. As promised our tour guide Beatriz picked us up in front of our Vila Nova de Gaia flat at 8:30 AM sharp. She was very personable and professional and as we were the only two guests, whisked us away as if on a private tour. Our first stop was the small village of Amarante where we had a tour of a local chapel and town center, and a stop for cafe and some sweet treats.
On toward the Douro Valley we enjoyed lively conversation with Beatriz on several topics, and along with interesting scenery we soon arrived at Quinta Avassada Enoteca. Here our host Evo led us to a garden area where we tasted an important wine of the region Moscatel. We enjoyed crusty bread and cheese along with our tasting. We then enjoyed a year old Moscatel which was a complex and enjoyable port like wine, while taking a tour of a wine making area.
Now we continue to Bucheirito Estate to enjoy lunch with Douro wines of Malvasia and Touriga Nacional. We were able to select a vegetarian option which we appreciate, and the lunch was delicious. After desert, we try aged Moscatel wine which is delightful, and more red wine to enjoy while meeting the family and touring the facility and vineyard. Afterward, we enjoy splendid views of the vineyards and take a selfie with our guide Beatriz and the owner of this Quinta, Mr António!
Now we are transported through the narrow and twisting roads by our expert driver to enjoy amazing views of this incredible wine region, with opportunities to take some photos. Late in the day, we arrive for our final wine tasting of the fine products of one of the few small, family owned Port wine producers, Quinta Santa Eugenia. We enjoy a brief tour of the facility and grounds before our hostess Theresa pours samples of white, LBV Ruby and Tawny ports which are wonderful. We have a very personal experience one on one with the Theresa, and then a last taste of a special white port which is exquisite. Sadly, it is time to leave the Valley Douro, and we relax while Beatriz returns us quickly, yet safely in the rush hour traffic and evening rain directly to our flat.
This was truly an amazing, all day adventure, more like taking a ride with a good friend to visit family and enjoy some wonderful wine and food, learning about the wines, the history, the process and even family in a personal atmosphere. Highly recommend this incredible tour, and hope you will be fortunate to have Beatriz for your guide.