Porto, Portugal

Port Wine Cellars

Learn About Port Production and Sample Different Styles at a Wine Cellar Explore a renowned wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia and sample several styles of its famed fortified wine, port. Located on the south banks of the Douro River, the town of Vila Nova de Gaia became a center for the production of port during the 13th century because of its favorable environmental conditions for aging the wine and its freedom from parochial taxation. From your ship’s berth, take a short walk to the wine company, which has been operating along the riverbank for generations. Take a guided tour of the establishment’s cellar, in which the casks of port are aged, and gain insight into the production process. Then, enjoy a tasting of the three different varieties of port—ruby, tawny and white. Savor the sweet, rich flavor of these premium wines. Afterward, you will make the short downhill walk back to your awaiting ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.