Sandeman Port

You cannot leave the port region of Portugal without visiting the port storage caves in Vila Nova de Gaia and sampling the varieties of fortified Port Wine available. Sandeman is one of the companies proudly displaying their business on the river walk along the south bank of the Douro River.  Do not just eat at the sidewalk cafe, but take some time to visit the climate inside the cave for a guided tour and an explanation of the process of making the world renowned brew. That is how you will get to sample and compare the different varieties.

Port is special because of the “fortification process”. The fermenting of the wine is interrupted by adding a grape spirit called aguardente. This leaves some sugar in the wine and boosts the alcohol content. Of course you have to start with the correct grapes and they happen to be only those from this Douro River valley region.

Do you have a special year of interest? Maybe a birth year, graduation year, or marriage year? They may have your vintage here.

What is your special vintage?

There is a lot of wood and dust and alcohol around. A good fire alarm system would be a great idea.

The temperature and humidity in the caves are ideal for storing Port. Sometimes the humidity gets out of control and the water level rises in the cave. Some of the high water marks have been recorded.

What kind of port do you like?

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