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Winery · Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto
Caves de Vinho do Porto
The cellars at the Cais de Gaia, where Port wine has been aged in barrels for centuries. Houses such as Sandeman, Taylor's, Graham's, Cálem and Ferreira host visits with tastings.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Caves de Vinho do Porto
Port wine is produced from grapes of the Região Demarcada do Douro, established in 1756, and its fermentation is stopped with a fortifying spirit, which gives it sweetness and a higher alcohol content. Since the 17th century, the wine was taken down the river and aged in the warehouses of Gaia, called caves or lodges.
The cellars spread along the streets rising from the Cais de Gaia. Among the houses that receive visitors are Sandeman, Taylor's, Graham's, Cálem, Ferreira and Cockburn's, many founded by British and Portuguese merchants in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Visits show the wooden barrels and casks where the wine matures, explain the styles such as ruby, tawny, white and vintage, and end with a tasting.
At the quay the rabelo boats are moored—flat-bottomed vessels with square sails—that for centuries carried the port pipes down the Douro to Gaia.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From one to one and a half hours per cellar, including a tasting.
Best time
All year round. In the European summer, book the visit in advance. Late afternoon at the Cais is the busiest time.
How to get there
Cross the Ponte Luís I via the lower deck from the Ribeira, or descend by cable car from the Jardim do Morro. The cellars are a few minutes' walk from the Cais.
Tip
Choose one or two cellars and book in advance. Tastings contain alcohol: do not drive afterwards and taste in moderation.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Caves de Vinho do Porto
What is Port wine?
A fortified wine from the Douro, with fermentation stopped by the addition of grape spirit, which is aged in Gaia.
Which wine cellars should you visit in Gaia?
Several traditional houses on the Cais de Gaia open their cellars to visitors, with a tasting at the end. Book ahead, especially in the European summer.
What's the difference between ruby and tawny?
Ruby ages for less time in large vats and keeps its color and fruit; tawny ages longer in smaller barrels and takes on a brownish tone.