When I heard about Real Companhia Velha, Portugal’s oldest wine company, I knew I had to visit. This place has been around since 1756—let that sink in! It was founded under a royal charter by King D. José I. That’s almost 270 years of history in every bottle. The winery’s story is pretty remarkable, too. It started as a way to protect the purity and cultivation of Douro Valley wines, and now it’s run by the Silva Reis family, who’ve been keeping this legacy alive since 1960.

Walking in, you feel the weight of history. They own five quintas in the Douro Valley, and their wines are a testament to centuries of passion and craftsmanship.

Location

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The winery is in Vila Nova de Gaia, which is just a quick jaunt across the Douro River from Porto. It’s so close to the city center that you can make a day of exploring Porto and then head over for a wine session. The cellars? Super simple, but don’t let that fool you. Inside, there’s a wine room where they keep bottles from the 1700s and 1800s—yes, you’re in the presence of liquid history.

And the vineyards? They’re in the breathtaking Douro Valley. If you haven’t been, it’s one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. The landscape, the terroir, the climate—it all plays a part in creating the incredible wines.

What’s in the Glass?

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Let’s talk wine; because, well, that’s why you’re here, right? Real Companhia Velha doesn’t skimp on variety. Whether you’re into bold reds, crisp whites, refreshing rosés, or classic Ports, they’ve got you covered. They also have some of the best Port wines in the region. Think deep, rich flavors with a story in every sip.

I did some digging, and these guys have won awards left and right. Their Delaforce 20-Year-Old Tawny Port, for example, scored 90 points from Wine Spectator. Not too shabby! The wines are made from traditional Portuguese grapes like Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, and Touriga Franca, along with a few international varieties. It’s like a celebration of old-world meets new.

Behind the Scenes: How It’s Made

The winemaking process is a blend of tradition and modernity. Grapes are hand-harvested—yes, by actual people—and fermented in stainless steel tanks or traditional granite lagares (super cool to see). Aging happens in French oak barrels, which adds all those lovely layers of flavor we wine nerds live for.

The Tasting Room Vibes

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Ah, the tasting room. This space is massive but still feels cozy and luxurious. Stone walls, wine-inspired décor, and a calm, quiet vibe make it perfect for really soaking in the experience. It’s like stepping into a wine lover’s dream.

I opted for a private tasting (you can book these in advance) paired with some incredible Portuguese bites. They also offer wine-pairing dinners, which I’ll definitely be back for. Bonus: If you’re on the Eating Europe tour, this spot is one of the highlights.

Service With a Smile

The staff here? Absolute gems. They’re super knowledgeable and obviously passionate about what they do. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a total newbie, they’re happy to guide you through the experience.

And they’re flexible, too. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a small group, or part of a big tour, they’ll make sure you’re taken care of. It’s great for wine lovers of all types.

Worth the Price? Absolutely.

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Here’s the thing: You’re not just paying for wine. You’re paying for the history, the expertise, the incredible ambiance, and an unforgettable experience. For what you get, it’s totally worth it.

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

Honestly, any time of year works. The winery’s indoor spaces make it a great spot to visit no matter the weather, and the Douro Valley is stunning in all seasons.

Why You Should Go

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Real Companhia Velha isn’t just a winery—it’s a slice of Portugal’s history. From the centuries-old cellars to the perfectly crafted wines, everything about this place feels authentic. It’s a must-visit whether you’re a local or a tourist.

What really stuck with me is how they manage to make such a historic place feel approachable. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve just experienced something truly special—and probably with a bottle (or two) to take home.

FAQs

  • Do I need to book in advance? Yep, plan ahead to secure your spot.
  • Can I buy wine there? Absolutely. Stock up!
  • Are there special events? Not really, but the wine-pairing dinners are a must.

If you’re in Porto or the Douro Valley, don’t sleep on Real Companhia Velha. It’s a perfect mix of history, great wine, and an all-around amazing vibe. 

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Port wine & food tour in Porto. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/porto/port-wine-food-tour/

Real Companhia Velha. (n.d.). Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.realcompanhiavelha.pt/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Best port wine. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/best-port-wine/



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