Today we headed north to the Vinho Verde DOC, home of the light fresh wines that reflect the verdant landscape and cool maritime climate. Despite the hot summer that had just ended and temperatures still approaching 30°C we were indeed surrounded by greenery, particularly in the gardens of Quinta da Aveleda
This historic estate is where the Guedes family’s wine interests (currently 5,000ha of vines producing over 20 million bottles of wine a year) started. Manoel Pedro Guedes bought the Quinta in the 19th Century, and in addition to converting farmland to vineyards, created a wonderful garden out of the hillside. We walked through the ‘English romantic’ garden along winding paths and perpendicular avenues admiring the now mature trees and shrubs from around the globe that have been planted and nurtured over decades. There were also ponds and fountains and follies, including a fully occupied goat tower. It was peaceful, cool and most unexpected.
A quick trip through their aguardiente cellar led us to the tasting room where we enjoyed a tasting of four wines. All 100% Alvarinho, they contrasted beautifully thanks to their different terroirs, from fresh, floral and fruity to minerally and structured. Something for everyone!
We had a typical Portuguese lunch (soup, duck rice, baked custard) with a more traditional Vinho Verde (blend of Loueiro and Alvarinho), a rich Douro red and an Espumante Vinho Verde, served in their airy dining room with views out over the hills.
This was a great way to understand the region and the quality of its wines, and we even got back to Porto in time to enjoy an evening strolling through the handsome streets and perhaps a glass or two on the terraces of Vila Nova de Gaia.
