The Douro Valley, Portugal is a must for wine lovers, especially if the wine lover appreciates learning more about port. The perfect place to start is at the Quinta do Seixo Wine Center. In fact any visit to the Douro Valley should include a visit to the spectacular Quinta do Seixo. Our visit to Sandeman’s Quinta do Seixo Wine Center in the Douro Valley was a post harvest, October visit. What struck me most about our visit to Quinta do Seixo were the amazing views, even on a rainy October day. Quinta do Seixo has some of the most spectacular views in the Douro.
Quinta do Seixo Wine Center
Sandeman’s Quinta do Seixo Wine Center is perched at the top of a hill in Cima Corgo area. It overlooks vineyards and the Douro River. Through the wine center’s windows there are inviting views onto the Douro landscape. Like most visitors to the wine center we took a tour, followed by a tasting. During the tour our guide wore the typical apparel that is associated with the famous Sandeman symbol.
Our tasting of Sandeman port wines included Sandeman White Port, Sandeman Founder’s Reserve Port, Sandeman Vau Vinatage, Sandeman Imperial Reserve Port and Sandeman 20 Year Old Twany Port.
The valley of port and beyond
Fall is a perfect time to check out Douro Valley quintas, like Qunita do Seixo. During a fall visit you will see the leaves changing colors. You can also check out the grape harvest. In our case we were not able to arrive at harvest time. Prior to visiting the Douro Valley however, I did a little research. I particularly liked an article by Robin Dorhn-Simpson about her visit to the Douro. I certainly identified with her openness to learn about port.
After visiting Sandeman’s Wine Center, I knew that whenever I see the Sandeman symbol, the symbol would always remind me of one special October visit. Yes, we got to see that distinctive symbol at the Sandeman Port Lodge in Porto. Then shortly after leaving Portugal at Frankie Istanbul, just at the end of dinner, a glass of Sandeman 20 Year Old Tawny Port appeared. My Spaswinefood wish is that the port journey will continue. I definitely have my eyes open for more Sandeman port sightings in the future.
The Douro Valley’s natural beauty
Without doubt no one can visit a Douro Valley quinta without being stuck by its natural beauty. The fall colors, grape harvest and great ports make for the perfect trip to the Douro Valley. Fall is the perfect time, after all the summer tourists have gone. We were also told during our visit that spring is a great time to visit as well.
There is also no doubt that Quinta do Seixo’s spectacular Douro Valley setting is impressive. Spaswinefood enjoyed tasting and learning about all things port. I invite you to join me in my travels in Douro Valley, Portugal and elsewhere in search of the best in Spaswinefood. You may also visit my travel column at the Examiner.
© Sharon Parsons
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Source Article from http://www.examiner.com/article/sandeman-s-quinta-do-seixo-is-a-douro-valley-must-visit
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