Quinta do Noval is a historic Port shipper that encapsulates the Douro’s location and spirit. Dating back to 1715, it is the only historic Port shipper to bear the name of its vineyard and produce single vineyard vintage Ports that display the nuances of the land. Since 1997, all of its activities, including bottling and storing its wines, have been centralized in the Douro Valley. The estate’s magnificent terraced vineyards rising from the riverbank provide a glimpse of the beating heart of the Douro, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Quinta do Noval produces historic white, red, and old tawny Ports, as well as white and red wines that celebrate the Douro’s noblest grape varieties. Private tours and tastings are available by appointment only, ensuring an exclusive introduction to the estate. Visitors will start in the vineyard, where Portugal’s highest classification, Letter A, is bestowed upon all 145 hectares. The different parcels of land, with varying soils, altitudes, and expositions, impart distinctive characteristics into the wines. The tour will then lead through the winery and cellars, where visitors can witness the traditional stone lagares and even the treading of the grapes.

Quinta do Noval works hard to faithfully represent its multifaceted vineyard by planting each parcel with the grape variety best suited to it, including the native Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, and Sousão. The highly sought-after Quinta do Noval ‘Nacional’ Vintage Port is a field blend of 20-30 of these varieties, displaying a unique personality with each vintage. The newer ‘Noval Black’ comes in a smart, updated bottle and is designed to be tasted alongside dark chocolate or simply chilled for a more modern Port experience. In addition to the original shop in Vila Nova de Gaia, a new emporium on the quays of Pinhão offers a wealth of information, tastings, and more. Quinta do Noval is open every day of the year, and reservations are required for private tours and tastings.