Taylor’s Port

We climbed Gaia’s steep hill to visit one of the only wineries open on Sunday, Taylor’s.

Founded in the 17th century, Taylor’s was one of the first wineries in Portugal. It is the last of the independent British houses, still family-owned and operated. Taylor’s was one of the first producers to acquire their own vineyards rather than simply buying grapes. Taylor’s best-known vineyard, Quinta de Vargellas, dates back to the early 1800’s and is located in the remote, prestigious Douro Valley.

We were required to go on a 45-minute tour, after which we could taste a Late Bottled Vintage and an Aged Tawny. The tour group was quite large and the tour was not that informative, but the port was excellent.

Afterward, rather than set off down the hill, we had an interminable lunch in the on-site restaurant. The food was decent, but the service was lacking.

Rua Choupelo 250, Vila Nova de Gaia
Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.