Different grape varieties
11-03-2024
Curiosities
Do you know?
Schist is predominant in the Douro Region
The predominant stone in the Douro region is schist, a strongly laminated metamorphic rock. This characteristic is commonly known; however, few people realise that it is one of the main factors in the production of world-famous wines.
Rich in nutrients, this soil also has the useful property of retaining water.
This stone can retain a significant amount of moisture, enough to allow the vine to survive in the arid conditions that prevail for most of the summer.
The Douro's terraces are not works of nature
Do you know what "Surriba" means? It's an agricultural technique whereby the soil is excavated to soften it. The greatest manifestation of this technique can be found in the Douro and its famous wine terraces. Man has always felt the need to clear the land in the Douro in order to plant vines properly.
The terraces are therefore not the work of Nature, but the perfect result of the harmony between the sweat of labour and the natural landscapes. Moreover, the cleaning and regularisation of the land makes it possible to create favourable conditions for the growth of vines, allowing roots and water to settle, maintaining a constant temperature and preventing erosion. The man-made terraces fit in perfectly with the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Accidental Origin
Port wine was discovered accidentally. During the 17th century, to avoid the wine spoiling during their long sea travels, the producers added brandy to the wine, thus creating a fortified Port Wine.
Region of Douro
The Douro Demarcated Region is where Port Wine is produced. It was considered World Heritage by UNESCO due to its unique winery view and its secular wine production tradition.
People and Wine
Wine has the power of uniting people and creating special moments of socialization and sharing. In many cultures, drinking wine is a special way of celebrating friendship, strengthening family bonds and straightening social relationships. The appreciation of wine is also a common conversation topic between friends and unfamiliar people, thus promoting the exchange of experiences, knowledge and opinions.
To many individuals, wine goes beyond a simple drink; it becomes a passion, inspiring them to explore the new flavours, wine-producing regions, and techniques. Wine tasting can be a pleasurable activity and an educational one, allowing people to deepen their knowledge about this historical and complex drink.
The connection between people and wine creates its own string of connections, enrichening the tasting and cultural experiences of those who appreciate a good glass of wine.
Port Wine News
Hand Harvesting
11-03-2024
Despite all the technology that has been developed, the grape harvest in the Douro is still done by hand.
Recently, around 81 million bottles of wine have been exported, reaching a new record. Exports make up an important slice of total sales, and in 2018 they accounted for around 81 per cent of turnover.
