Port Wines & Chocolate Pairing

Key Points

• Affordable and Concise: The tour costs $33 per person and lasts 40 minutes, perfect for a quick yet quality experience.
• Exclusive Pairings: You sample three Port wines—LBV, 10 Year Old White Port, and 20 Year Old Tawny—each expertly paired with artisanal chocolates made in Porto.
• Rich Heritage: Hosted by Quevedo, a family-owned Port wine business boasting five generations of expertise, with wines bottled under their own brand since 1993.
• Informative and Friendly: Expect knowledgeable staff who excel at sharing the nuances of Port wines, making even newcomers feel comfortable.
• Ideal for Small Groups: The experience is limited to 8 participants, creating a cozy, engaging atmosphere.
• Accessible and Flexible: Offered in multiple languages (Portuguese, Spanish, English) with options for free cancellation and reserve now, pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Port Wine & Chocolate Pairing in Vila Nova de Gaia

The Port Wines & Chocolate Pairing tour from Quevedo offers a delightful taste of Portugal’s famous fortified wines, paired with artisanal chocolates crafted in Porto. Priced at $33 per person and lasting around 40 minutes, this experience fits well into a busy schedule while providing a meaningful introduction to Port wine.

Set in a historic building right in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, the tour begins at a straightforward meeting point: in front of Santa Marinha Church, just past the famous Bordalo II “Rabbit” sculpture. The location is easy to find, and staff are on hand to guide participants to the tasting area. The intimacy of the small group size—limited to 8 people—ensures a personalized experience where questions are welcome.

Tasting of Three Distinct Port Wines Paired with Local Chocolates

The core of this experience is tasting three carefully selected Port wines paired with locally made artisanal chocolates. The first is Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), matched with raspberry chocolate, highlighting the wine’s fruity notes. Next, the 10 Year Old White Port is paired with dark chocolate covered candied orange, emphasizing its smooth, refined character. Lastly, the 20 Year Old Tawny Port is paired with praline and pepper chocolate, offering a complex, layered flavor profile.

The pairings are designed to bring out the best in each Port wine, making this an engaging way to compare different styles. The artisanal chocolates, crafted in Porto, add a local touch, enriching each sip with complementary flavors. The expert staff clearly explain the nuances of each wine, helping both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts deepen their appreciation.

The Heritage Behind Quevedo’s Port Wines

Quevedo is a family-owned business with a proud heritage spanning five generations. Since Portugal’s entry into the EU in 1993, Quevedo has bottled its wines under its own brand name, making it one of the newer Port houses in the Douro region. Their wines are raised, matured, and bottled in the Douro Valley, where the grapes’ origin is carefully preserved.

The family cultivates 100 hectares of vineyards and 25 hectares of organic olive groves across five properties. This diversity allows them to produce wines with distinctive aromas and flavors, crafted with a focus on vineyard quality. Their emphasis on the vineyard as the birthplace of good wine is evident in the unique profiles of their Port offerings.

The Experience Hosts and Atmosphere

Guests are welcomed by friendly and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about Port wine and eager to share their expertise. Review mentions highlight the warm, humorous, and cozy atmosphere created during the tasting, making it suitable for private groups or small gatherings.

The guides provide a thorough introduction to Port wine, including its different styles and aging processes, helping visitors understand what makes each glass special. The private tasting aspect—sometimes arranged for small groups—adds an exclusive feel, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

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Meeting and Ending the Tour in Central Vila Nova de Gaia

The meeting point is convenient for visitors exploring Gaia, right in front of Santa Marinha Church. The activity begins with a brief check-in with staff, who direct guests to the tasting area. The activity concludes back at the same spot, making it easy to plan additional sightseeing or meals afterward.

The duration of 40 minutes keeps the experience concise but rich, ideally suited for those wanting a quick yet meaningful Port wine tasting. The activity maintains a small group setting, fostering interaction and personalized attention.

Accessibility and Booking Flexibility

This tour is wheelchair accessible and caters to a multilingual audience with hosts speaking Portuguese, Spanish, and English. Because it offers free cancellation with a 24-hour notice, visitors can book confidently, knowing they can adjust plans if needed. Payment is also flexible—reserve now and pay later—which appeals to travelers with uncertain schedules.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

What sets the Port Wines & Chocolate Pairing apart is the combination of heritage, quality, and intimacy. The pairing of Port wines with artisanal chocolates makes for a memorable taste experience, especially considering the expert guidance provided. Visitors receive a well-rounded introduction to the different styles of Port, along with rich stories about Quevedo’s family history and commitment to quality.

Another highlight is the small group size, which enhances the personalized atmosphere. The location in Vila Nova de Gaia, near major sights and easily accessible, adds convenience for those exploring the city.

Limitations to Consider

While the experience is short and sweet, it might not suit travelers seeking a comprehensive tour of Port wine production or multiple cellar visits. It focuses primarily on tasting and pairing, without delving into the broader winery or cellar tour experience. Also, additional wines and snacks are not included, so guests interested in a larger tasting might need to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts on the Port Wines & Chocolate Pairing

The $33 price offers good value for a personalized, expertly guided tasting that introduces guests to some of Portugal’s finest Port wines paired with local chocolates. The knowledgeable staff, intimate setting, and focus on quality over quantity make this experience appealing for small groups and those new to Port wine.

Ideal for lovers of wine and chocolate, this tour provides a delightful snapshot of Portugal’s wine culture in a convenient, friendly environment. It’s perfect for a short visit or an introductory experience before exploring more of Gaia’s wine cellars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting experience lasts approximately 40 minutes.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in Portuguese, Spanish, and English.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
The price includes a tasting of three Port wines paired with artisanal chocolates made in Porto.

Where is the meeting point?
The tour starts in front of Santa Marinha Church in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Are additional wines or snacks available?
No, additional wines and snacks are not included in the standard package.

Would this experience suit a private event?
Yes, the small group size and private tasting options make it suitable for intimate gatherings.

Is it worth the price?
With its expert guidance, quality pairings, and heritage setting, this tour offers good value for those wanting a quick, authentic introduction to Port and artisanal chocolates.

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