Historic Winery Tour and Tasting in Bombarral

Explore a Historic Family-Owned Winery Near Lisbon

The Historic Winery Tour and Tasting in Bombarral offers a chance to step behind the scenes of one of Portugal’s distinguished wine estates. For $52.36 per person, this approximately 90-minute experience takes you only 40 minutes from Lisbon, making it a convenient escape into Portugal’s wine culture. The tour features guided visits to the estate’s cellars, gardens, and aging rooms, alongside a tasting of six premium wines paired with local snacks.

This experience is ideal for wine lovers and those curious about Portugal’s wine traditions. It is limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate setting where guides can share detailed insights. While it’s a relaxed, family-run operation, visitors should note that advance booking is recommended, usually booked 14 days in advance.

Key Points

• Family-owned estate just 40 minutes from Lisbon, emphasizing personal touches and local history
• Tasting of six wines included, with accompanying local snacks
• Guided visits to historic cellars from 1871, gardens, and distillation area
• Intimate group size capped at 12 for personalized attention
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour
• Suitable for most travelers with an interest in wine and history

Visiting the Family-Owned Winery Outside Lisbon

The tour begins at the Quinta do Sanguinhal, located at 2540-216 Q.ta do Sanguinhal. Visitors are welcomed onto the estate, which is renowned for being one of the earliest distilleries in the region, featuring beautiful copper alembic stills. The family and dedicated team operate this historic site, combining tradition with a welcoming atmosphere.

The location benefits from its proximity to popular beaches such as Peniche, Baleal, and Nazaré, and is on the route to Fátima, making it an appealing stop for a day trip. The estate’s focus on tourism investments has enhanced the visitor experience while maintaining its authentic charm.

Discovering the Estate’s Rich History and Architecture

The historic buildings of the winery are part of what makes this tour special. Visitors walk through granite cellars containing wood and granite screw presses, some dating back to 1871. These features are unique in the Iberian Peninsula and showcase the long-standing tradition of wine production at the estate.

The estate’s century-old buildings also include distillation facilities and beautiful gardens, providing picturesque settings for exploration. The guided tour sheds light on the local wine-making secrets and the estate’s ongoing commitment to quality.

Exploring the Cellars and Production Areas

A major highlight of the tour is visiting the cellars where wines are aged. Visitors see granite and wood aging rooms, offering a glimpse into traditional wine storage methods. The estate’s screw presses are also on display, emphasizing the craftsmanship involved in producing their wines.

The distillery, which holds historical significance, is among the first in the region and features column copper stills. The guide explains the distillation process and the estate’s history, enriching the understanding of Portugal’s diverse alcohol production.

The Guided Wine Tasting Experience

After the estate visit, guests are led to a guided tasting of six wines. The selection includes two whites, two reds, and two fortified wines, all produced on-site. The tasting provides insights into Portuguese wine styles and the estate’s unique techniques.

Local snacks accompany the wines, enhancing the tasting experience. Guests learn secrets of Portuguese wine-making from knowledgeable guides, making it a valuable session for both beginners and connoisseurs alike.

Insightful Guides and Personal Atmosphere

The guides, including Anna, the great-granddaughter of the founder, are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and storytelling. They provide fascinating information about the estate’s history and the family’s legacy. The small group size ensures an interactive and engaging experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions.

Visitors appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to connect with the family’s story through the guides’ narratives.

Practical Details: How to Book and What to Expect

Booking generally requires planning about two weeks in advance, reflecting the popularity of the tour. The meeting point is at Q.ta do Sanguinhal, and the activity ends back at the same location. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation provided immediately upon booking.

The experience operates with a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring an intimate atmosphere. It is offered with free cancellation, allowing flexibility if plans change, as long as cancellations are made at least 24 hours before.

The Value of the Bordeaux in the Portuguese Context

At $52.36, the tour offers excellent value, combining historic architecture, guided insights, and tasting six wines. The inclusion of local snacks adds to the overall experience, making it a well-rounded outing for wine enthusiasts.

While the tour does not specify physical requirements, visitors should be prepared for walking around the estate and standing during tastings. The setting’s historic buildings and gardens are accessible and add a scenic backdrop to the journey.

Comparing This Experience with Similar Tours

This winery experience stands out due to its intimate size, family ownership, and historic cellars. It is different from larger, commercial winery tours by offering a deeper connection to local tradition and personalized storytelling.

Other tours in the Lisbon area might focus on city sightseeing or gourmet food tours, but this one appeals to those seeking a relaxed, authentic wine experience outside the urban environment.

Final Thoughts on the Historic Winery Tour and Tasting

This tour offers a genuine insight into Portuguese wine-making at a historic estate just outside Lisbon. The guided visits to cellars and gardens paired with six wine tastings create a rich, immersive experience. The personal touch of family ownership and enthusiastic guides make it especially appealing.

While the experience is not overly strenuous and suitable for most, it’s best suited for those interested in wine and history, looking for a more intimate alternative to larger group tours. The free cancellation policy adds flexibility, making it a low-risk choice for planning a memorable day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is included in the tasting?
Guests taste six wines, including two whites, two reds, and two fortified wines, along with local snacks.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Q.ta do Sanguinhal, Portugal.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour is capped at 12 participants for a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though it involves walking around historic estate grounds.

How far is the winery from Lisbon?
It is about 40 minutes by car from central Lisbon.

What makes this winery special?
It’s a family-owned estate with century-old buildings, historic cellars, and an early distillery, offering a deep dive into regional wine traditions.