sandeman cellar tour

Sandeman Port Wine Cellars

Some places preserve time, memories, and the flavors of a region. Sandeman Wine Cellars is one of those. A magnificent building, home of the most internationally recognized of Porto wines – Sandeman.

At Sandeman Wine Cellars, you will have plenty of artifacts to explore as a fascinating display of paintings and photographs collected over the centuries. Finally, you will have the chance to know one of the most impressive and significant bottle collection in Europe. Here you will discover examples from the mid-17th century and the entire brand’s 200 years of history.

Enter in Sandeman mysterious journey and let yourself be surprised.

Contacts & Location

Port wine cellars.

See our offers

Port wine cellars, sandeman 1790 visit, €28.00.

DURATION: 1h30min TASTING: 5 PORT WINES PLACE: THE 1790 ROOM

This historic tour takes us back to the date of Sandeman’s establishment, exploring the roots of its historical heritage and its irreverent advertising since the start of the 20th century. The tour ends in The 1790 Room, with an extended tasting of Port Wines.

SANDEMAN OLD TAWNIES VISIT

€48.00.

DURATION: 1h30 min TASTING: 4 PORT WINES PLACE: THE 1790 ROOM

An experience which begins with the timeline of Sandeman's history and its long tradition in the production of high quality Old Tawnies.

In the tasting, the award-winning wines Sandeman Tawny 10, 20, 30 and 40 Years Old... a complete century of Tawnies. 

PORTO SANDEMAN VISIT

€21.00.

DURATION: 50 min TASTING: 3 PORT WINES PLACE: TASTING ROOM

The Don leads visitors through rows of vats and casks, in a building where Sandeman Porto Wine ages since 1811. A fascinating story, which ends with a widescreen video experience. The tasting includes three styles: White, Ruby and Tawny.

MASTERING SANDEMAN PORT WINE

€68.00.

DURATION: 3h TASTING: 5 PORT WINES PLACE: THE 1790 ROOM

An educational experience to learn more about Port Wine, its production and different categories, the Douro Region, and how to taste this special wine.

PORTO SANDEMAN EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE

€160.00.

DURATION: 2h30 min TASTING: 6 PORT WINES PLACE: THE 1790 ROOM

An exclusive experience where to learn more about Sandeman's history chronology, its long tradition in the wine production and tastesome of its famous Vintage Ports and Old Tawnies.

SANDEMAN VISIT & METAVERSE EXPERIENCE

€25.00.

DURATION: 1h30min TASTING: 2 PORT WINES PLACE: TASTING ROOM

Visit the Sandeman Cellars, and enjoy an extraordinary Metaverse Experience to Quinta do Seixo in the Douro Valley!

At the end, enjoy a delicious port wine tasting including the irreverent Sandeman Beat on Ice!

Only available from the age of 16.

Stay up to date with all of our latest news

Responsible drinking is important to us.

This site is intended for people of legal drinking age. Upon entering the Sandeman website, you confirm that you are of legal age for drinking alcoholic beverages, in accordance with the law in force in the country where you access the site.

To continue please confirm if you are of legal drinking age in the country where you are accessing the website.

To visit our website please confirm if you agree with and accept the Terms and Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy.

Sandeman Club

• Destinations
• Winery Directory

Sandeman Cellars

Porto (gaia), portugal.

A magnificent building that is full of history, the Port House of Sandeman has been used for more than two centuries to age the world’s most recognized Porto wines inside hundreds of wooden casks and vats.

Situated next to the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, the House of Sandeman boasts one of the best views over Porto, a city classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. 

Sandeman also operates a Co-Branded restaurant called The George in Porto, as well as a Hostel and Hotel Suite facility called The House of Sandeman .

Tasting is available with the tours. The tastings discussed here are located on at the Porto (Gaia) cellar location.

Tasting Price: 13 - 40 Euros.

Classic Tour The visit culminates in a spacious state-of-the-art tasting room, where Sandeman Ruby and Tawny Porto Wines can be enjoyed in a unique environment. Premium Tour A guided tour through the Sandeman Cellars ending with a tasting of three different categories of wines – White, Ruby and Tawny. 1790 Tour In a special area, exclusive to the 1790 Tour, five select Porto wines are explored in a prolonged tasting experience, affording a detailed knowledge of this unique wine. 100 Year Old Tawny Tour An opportunity to discover Sandeman’s long tradition in the ageing and blending of Porto Wines. The tour ends with a comprehensive tasting of a century of Tawnies – 10, 20, 30 and 40 Year Old Tawny Portos

Tasting Price: Classic Tour: 13 euros Premium Tour: 15 euros 1790 Tour: 22 euros 100 years Old Tawnies Tour: 40 euros

This winery offers Cave Tours on or nearby their winery facility. Cave Tours typically involve barrel room exploration in either natural caves or man made underground storage rooms.

Great Views

This winery is known for its Great Views on the property.

This winery includes lodging on or nearby the property.

There is a restaurant on-site.

Wine Tastings

This winery offers wine tastings on the property either by walk-in or appointment.

This winery offers wine tours on their property. Either of the winery facility, vineyards and/or cellar space.

Grape Varieties

• Touriga Franca
• Touriga Nacional
• Tinta Roriz

Wine Styles

• Dessert Wines

Leave a Comment, Ask a Question or Share a Review Cancel reply

Wineries near by, kopke port house, tripadvisor traveler rating, taylor fladgate port house, ferreira cellars, graham’s port house, cheers to free membership.

Explore new paths. Travel expertise from locals and wine industry experts.

Get free access to all the goods:

• Exclusive articles
• In-depth itineraries
• …and more

• Travel Agencies
• Living Magazine
• Rui Terroso CEO - Blog
• Livingtourians together for a cause

Sandeman Port Wine Cellar - Ticket and Guided Visit

Introduction

Experience a voyage in time, precisely 225 years of history and taste one of the best Port  wines of the world !

Enjoy a memorable experience in Sandeman's cellars , uncovering the secrets of this precious nectar.

An unforgettable visit for lovers of Port wine and of interest to discover in the city of Porto.

Taste the most awarded Porto Wine Brand of 2017 .

Discover the history of Sandeman through its enigmatic and inspirational icon – the Sandeman Don .

Explore the Sandeman Cellars , with more than 225 years of History.

Buy your tickets now and wait no more: a memorable Wine Tasting Experience is waiting for you!

English, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Italian, German and Dutch

MEETING POINT

Largo Miguel Bombarda, Vila Nova de Gaia

Daily |  11h00 – 12h30 / 14h00 – 17:00h 

December 24th and 31st | 10h00-12h30

50 minutes - Porto Sandeman Visit

1h30 - Tour 1970

Full description

Discover the taste of the city of Porto - the world-famous Port Wine!

Have a guided visit to Sandeman Cellars , founded in 1790 and known not only for the quality of its wines but also for the Don , the mysterious character of its logo. A perfect experience for the wine lovers of the entire world, right?

You have the following options:

Porto Sandeman Tour Tasting

A team of tour guides, all dressed like the Don* , leads visitors through the cellars, unveiling the secrets of Port Wine and its traditional aging process. In a building where Sandeman Porto Wine has been aging since 1811. A fascinating story, that ends with a video experience in a panoramic screen. The tasting includes three styles: White, Ruby and Tawny Ports that can be enjoyed in a unique environment.

*dressed in the traditional Portuguese university students' cape and the Spanish sombrero.

1790 Tour Tasting

Visitors taking this tour, which is named after the year Sandeman was founded, will have the opportunity to delve deeper than ever into the  particularities of Porto Wine . In a special area, exclusive to the 1790 Tour, five select Porto wines are explored in a prolonged tasting experience, affording a detailed knowledge of this unique wine.

• Visit to Sandeman wine cellars
• Guided Visit
• Port Wine Tasting
• Juice for youth
• Pick up and drop off
• Personal expenses

Cancelation rules

No cancellation fee if you cancel until 24 hours prior to the activity date.

Cancellations less than 24 hours or no show, a fee of 100% will be charge.

Additional info

• Please present a paper voucher for this activity.
• The voucher must be printed and delivered at the entrance of the cellar.
• The exact visit time will be informed at time of the reservation confirmation.
• The minimum drinking age is 18 years.
• The visit to the wine cellar may be operated by a multi-lingual guide.
• Languages are subject to availability and confirmation.
• Please reconfirm your pick up time and location 48 hours before the tour   to our email:  [email protected]  or by phone: +351 227 662 833.

Nearest town

Nearest airport.

• * Your name

You must select a date. The voucher is valid for 1 year after the selected date

Those who bought this experience were also interested in:

Visit to Sea Life Porto - Oceanarium

Porto Fado Show with Port Wine Tasting

Visit to Porto Cálem Cellar

Ticket to Taylor's Port Wine Cellar

Visit to Cockburn's Port Wine Cellar

Ticket to visit 2 Port Wine Cellars - Cálem and Burmester

Wine Tour in Douro Valley - 2 Wineries, Tastings, River Cruise and Lunch

Douro Valley Historical and Wine Tour- Ancient villages, Winery, Cruise and Lunch

Personal info.

• * Name * LAST NAME
• PHONE NUMBER
• * E-MAIL ADDRESS
• CITY TO VISIT

* Required Fields

Porto Tuk Tuk Tour

GoCar tour in the city of Porto

Sky Experience: Porto Helicopter Tour

Porto Bike Tour - Historical Center and Riverside

Hard Rock Café Porto Lunch or Dinner Menu

Porto Airport Transfer door to door (from / to the City center)

Hotel Transfer to/from Porto or Gaia Quay

( the voucher is valid for 1 year after the purchase date).

Thank you! Please, check the confirmation email in your Inbox. If you have not received it, please go to Spam folder.

You will need to click on the link of the email to start getting newsletters from Living Tours and to get the 5% off!

• PHONE NUMBER *

Living Tours uses cookies in order to provide the best service possible. By continuing browsing, you are giving us the consent to use your cookies. You can read more information in our privacy policy .

Porto-North-Portugal.com

The best independent guide to Porto

Home - Top 10 - Where to stay? - 2 days - 1 Week - Day trips - Airport to Porto - Beaches - 1-day tour - Braga - Aveiro

Port cellar tours and Port tastings in Porto - updated for 2024

Porto is famed for producing Port wine, and a tour of one of the historic port cellars along with a port tasting session, is one of the best unique activities of the city.

Ancient laws dating back to the 17th century, dictate that for the sweet, fortified wine to be classified as Port, it must be stored and matured within the city of Vila Nova de Gaia, which sits opposite Porto on the southern banks of the Douro River. This means that within a relatively compact area of Vila Nova de Gaia are all of the major Port houses and their cellars (which are referred to as Lodges)

Many of the Port houses provide guided tours of their cellars along with Port tasting sessions. These tours and tastings sessions are informative, social and surprisingly inexpensive, and are a fantastic experience while on holiday to Porto.

This guide will detail the best Port tour and tasting sessions and help you get the most from this very enjoyable experience. Related articles: Introduction to Porto – Top 10 Porto

Being many centuries old, the Port cellars are rich in heritage - such as the Caves Burmester, pictured above

Tawny Ports are aged in small, oak casks and are typically stored for between 10 and 40 years

Port cellar tours in Porto

All of the Port cellars are situated on the southern side of the Douro River in the city of Vila Nova de Gaia. Each of the Port houses provides a slightly different experience, but they generally follow the same pattern: • An overview of the production of Port • The history of their company • A guided tour of the cellars (including photo opportunities) • A tasting of two or three ports

The tasting session often compares the three types of Ports; White, Ruby and Tawny or a selection of Ports of different ages.

The typical cost of a cellar tour, with a basic tasting, will range from €14-17. This type of tour is offered by all of the Port houses. More expensive tours include a premium selection of Ports, often hosted in a more impressive tasting room.

All of the Port cellar tours (except for Taylor's) are led by a tour guide, so they have a maximum number of spaces and set times for different languages. Tours should be pre-booked before heading to Vila Nova de Gaia, as turning up on the day can often lead to disappointment, especially in the peak summer season.

We always suggest visiting at least two Port cellars during your stay in Porto. This is a fantastic activity for later in the afternoon or evening, as you may leave a little bit tipsy!

The main tourist area of Vila Nova de Gaia lies along the banks of the river, and the port houses in this area (such as Sandeman and Cálem) will always be the most popular and sell out first. The cellars further away from the river, which are up a steep hill, provide a calmer atmosphere and often have more spaces available. These cellars include Real Companhia Velha, Graham's and Cockburn's.

The interactive map below shows the location of the Porto lodges within Vila Nova de Gaia. The shaded yellow area marks the main tourist area. ( Note: zoom out to see all of the points)

Key: 1) Augusto's 2) Burmester 3) Cálem 4) Churchill's 5) Cockburn’s 6) Ferreira 7) Fonseca 8) Graham’s 9) Poças 10) Ramos Pinto 11) Real Companhia Velha 12) Sandeman 13) Taylor's 14) Vasconcellos

Sandeman is one of the most popular Port cellars

The colour scale and storage time of the different varieties of Port, as seen in the Cálem museum

The best Port cellar tours and tastings sessions in Porto

With more than ten different Port houses providing tours and tasting sessions, there is a wide choice available to you. As these are all very similar, you will have a fantastic time whichever one you choose to visit.

The best Port cellars to visit are: 1) Ferreira 2) Cálem 3) Real Companhia Velha 4) Graham's 5) Sandeman 6) Taylor's 7) Ramos Pinto 8) Cockburns 9) Burmester

Insight: If you are new to Porto, we would recommend starting with one of the more tourism-focused Port cellars, such as Cálem or Sandeman, then have a second (or third) tour to one of the more atmospheric cellars, such as Real Companhia Velha, Ferreira, Graham's or Cockburns.

Ferreira is regarded by the residents of Porto as the best Port cellar to visit. It offers an informative tour of some of the oldest port cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and concludes with a great selection of Ports. The Ferreira company is highly regarded by the Portuguese, as it is a wholly owned Portuguese company (most Port houses were British owned) started by an inspirational woman named Dona Antónia Ferreira.

If you have no prior knowledge of Port, Cálem makes a great starting point. It provides knowledgeable guides and fascinating interactive displays. The downside is that it can get very busy, with large tour sizes and slightly rushed tasting sessions. ( Cálem cellar tour tickets )

Real Companhia Velha provides a more authentic experience and features magnificent port cellars, however it is a long way from the main tourism area of Vila Nova de Gaia. Real Companhia Velha is one of the oldest wine companies of Portugal, having been started by King Jose I in 1757. ( www.realcompan hiavelha.pt)

Graham's is a highly recommended experience, with a relaxed atmosphere and a larger set of cellars (www.grahams -port.com ). The Sandeman cellar, at the heart of the tourism area, has enthusiastic guides and is always a popular choice with visitors: www.sandeman.com

Taylor's should also be mentioned, as it provides a self-guided tour with a multi-language handset. This tour is not limited by visitor numbers, which is great for the busy summer season or if your desired language tour is sold out at other cellars. Taylor’s also has a pretty outside tasting area in a charming courtyard garden. ( www.taylor.pt )

Ramos Pinto makes an interesting choice for your second or third Port tour, as it includes the original 19th-century office and details the 'unique' marketing techniques of the company. www.ramospinto.pt/

Cockburn's is the largest Port cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia. Their tour provides something extra, as here you are able to watch the coopers at work as they preserve and repair the wooden barrels. ( www.cockburns.com )

Burmester is a smaller Port cellar at the base of the Ponte Luís I, which is also well worth a visit.

Porto tasting

Tourist insight: The port tours are excellent value, but the bottles of Port sold in the shops attached to the Port houses are often not good value. For standard bottles of Port, it is much better value to visit the wine shops in Porto or even the supermarkets. Unique gift: Each bottle of Port states the year it was produced, which can make a unique gift for a birthday or to commemorate a special year such as an anniversary.

Why are the Porto lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia?

All of the Port cellars are located in Vila Nova de Gaia, and the reason for this dates back to the 13th century.

Medieval Porto was effectively ruled by the bishop of Porto, and he taxed all boats that moored in the city. King Alfonso, seeking to avoid these taxes, established a second port in Vila Nova de Gaia (New Town of Gaia) opposite Porto on the southern banks of the Douro.

This port became the main centre for the transportation of grapes from the Upper Douro, and it became law in the 18th century that all Port must be matured within Vila Nova de Gaia.

Our most popular guides to Porto and northern Portugal

Home page and introduction to Porto

Top 10 Porto

What are the top 10 sights and activities in Porto?

Where to stay?

What is the best district in Porto to be based in for your holiday?

When to visit?

When best to visit Porto and weather guide

Cost of trip

How much would a trip to Porto cost?

1 week holiday

Discover the entire Porto region in 1 week

48 hours in Porto

Itinerary for two fully packed days in Porto

Walking tour

You have just 1 day to see Porto? Then follow our suggested tour

Porto's beaches

Porto is on a coastline of glorious beaches

Porto day trips

Porto's day trips; where to go? which order?

Port Cellars

Which Port cellar tour and tasting should you visit?

The Foz District

Pretty district situated at the mouth of the Douro River

Stunning scenery, charming villages and relaxing boat tours

A vibrant city, regarded as the religious centre of Portugal

Known as the birthplace of Portugal and steeped in history

Canals, colourful fishing boats and a rich history

Airport to Porto

How to travel from Porto airport to the city centre

Lively beach resort, offering the best beaches close to Porto

Ponte de Lima

Ancient crossing point of the Lima River

Viana do Castelo

A city that exemplifies all of the finest aspects of the Minho region

Douro by car

Leave the tourists behind and discover the true allure of the Douro

Porto's Trams

The charming trams of Porto that cross the city

Liberal students and ancient university traditions create a fascinating city

A complete list of all of our Porto and North Portugal guides

Getting Started

• Porto Home Page
• When to visit Porto?
• 1 Week Porto
• Porto in 3 Days
• Porto in 2 Days

Porto Beaches

• Porto Beach Guide
• Vila do Conde Intro
• Povoa de Varzim Intro
• Senhor da Pedra beach
• Aguda beach
• Espinho beach
• Introduction
• Day trip to Ponte de Lima
• Aveiro Introduction
• Porto to Aveiro

Other guides

• How long to stay in Porto?
• Porto Language
• Serra da Estrela by car
• Is it safe to visit Porto?
• Porto Airport
• Chaves Portugal

Viana Do Castelo

• Day trip to Viana
• Santuario de Santa Luzia
• Day trip to Valenca

Porto Guides

• Porto Day Trips
• Walking tour of Porto
• Airport to Porto city
• Porto's trams
• Torre dos Clérigos
• Linha 1 tram route
• Porto to Lisbon
• Porto to the Algarve
• Porto to Coimbra
• Lisbon to Porto Tour
• The Douro by car
• Linha do Douro train ride
• Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint

Porto or...

• Porto or Barcelona
• Porto or Copenhagen
• Porto or Florence
• Porto or Lisbon
• Porto or Madrid
• Porto or Milan
• Porto or Seville

Matosinhos intro Matosinhos beach

• Guimarães Introduction
• Day Trip to Guimarães
• Porto to Guimarães
• Guimarães or Braga?
• Braga Introduction
• Porto to Braga
• Day trip to Braga

Portugal Guides

Where to go in Portugal? Where to Live in Portugal Top 10 Portugal 1 week in Portugal Top 10 beaches

Central Portugal

• Sintra introduction
• Sights of Sintra
• Day trip to Sintra
• Lisbon to Sintra
• Sintra beaches
• Sintra tourist bus 434
• Palacio da Pena
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Parque da Pena
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Cascais introduction
• Day trip to Cascais
• Cascais beach guide
• Cascais sights
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon to Cascais
• Evora guide
• Evora sights
• Evora day trip
• Bone Chapel
• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra intorduction
• Sesimbra sightseeing
• Sesimbra beaches
• Lisbon to Sesimbra
• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
• Things to see in Obidos
• Obidos day trip
• Ericeira introduction
• Lisbon to Ericeira
• Ericeira beaches
• Setubal introduction
• Serra da Arrabida
• Peninsula de Troia
• Berlengas Islands

Lisbon Guides

• Lisbon introduction
• Lisbon top 10
• Secret Lisbon
• Lisbon beach guide
• 24 hours in Lisbon
• 48 hours in Lisbon
• 3 days in Lisbon
• Lisbon in 5 Days
• 1 Week Lisbon
• Lisbon day trips
• Lisbon shopping
• Lisbon Parks
• Lisbon on a wet day
• Museums and galleries
• Alfama District
• Baixa District
• Belem District
• Parque Nações
• Alcântara District
• Graça District
• Cais do Sodre
• Lisbon airport
• Lisbon Metro
• Castelo de São Jorge
• Elevador Santa Justa
• Torre de Belem
• Elevador da Bica
• Elevador do Lavra
• Elevador da Gloria
• Praça do Comercio
• Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Lisbon Viewpoints
• Miradouro da Graça
• Sao Pedro de alcantara
• Senhora do Monte
• Lisbon to Belem transport
• Costa da Caparica Portugal
• Lisbon at Christmas
• Santos Populares
• Lisbon for Families
• Lisbon for Seniors
• Cristo Rei Christ
• Lisbon Markets
• Ponte 25 de Abril
• Príncipe Real
• Free Lisbon
• Is Lisbon Walkable
• Lisbon Budget
• Driving in Lisbon
• From the airport
• To Cristo Rei
• Lisbon to Porto
• Lisbon tram guide
• Lisbon Ferrys

South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
• Albufeira guide
• Albufeira activities
• Albufeira beaches
• Day trip to Albufeira
• Albufeira boat trips
• Carvoeiro beaches
• Percurso dos Sete Vales hike
• Sights and activities
• Faro beaches
• Funchal introduction
• Lagos guide
• Lagos beaches
• Praia da Marinha
• Praia da Rocha
• Praia da Rocha beaches
• Tavira guide
• Tavira sights
• Tavira Beaches
• Vilamoura beaches
• Vila Nova de Milfontes

Port cellar tours and Port tastings in Porto - updated for 2024 © 2024 Porto-North-Portugal.com - Privacy Policy

The best guide to Porto

Thank you, We really appreciate you visiting our website, but the digital world is changing for the worse.

Independent publishers like us face many new challenges. Search engines now prioritize ads over organic content, and AI replicates our hard work.

If you enjoyed our work, please bookmark our website to easily find us again or share it on social media with your friends and family.

We aim to keep our 1,600+ pages accurate and fully updated. If you spot any errors or outdated information, please contact us at: [email protected]

• Top Attractions

Cellars and vineyards

Sandeman cellars.

Founded in 1790, Sandeman is not only famous for its quality wines but also thanks to the mysterious man on its logo, known as ' The Sandeman Man ', created in 1928 to represent the brand.

The House of Sandeman is one of the most popular attractions in Porto. It has a magical component, which is probably linked to the Sandeman Don , the company’s enigmatic and inspirational icon created in 1928: this curious figure has a long black Portuguese cape and a Spanish hat that covers his face. The icon is stamped on all the company’s products.

During the tour, you’ll be guided through the winery by a person dressed up as the Sandeman Don , who will explain the secrets behind the production of this distinctly Portuguese wine. The tour will end with a Porto wine tasting, where visitors will enjoy two glasses of wine aided by an expert Sandeman sommelier.

One of the best Cellars

Sandeman is one of the most renowned Cellars in Porto . Its wine is world famous and its installations are definitely worth visiting.

While you wait for the guided tour to begin, we recommend you check out the Cellar’s museum, where you’ll find interesting facts about how the company was founded in 1790 by George Sandeman , the son of a Scottish cabinet-maker.  

Largo Miguel Bombarda, 3

March – October: daily from 10am – 8pm. November – February: daily from 10am - 12:30pm and from 2pm – 6pm. *Last guided tour one hour before closing time.

Visit + 3 glasses of wine : € 17 ( US$ 18.40)

Bus : lines 900, 901 904 and 906.

Nearby places

Vila Nova de Gaia (55 m) Cálem Cellars (203 m) Ramos Pinto Cellars in Porto (285 m) Ribeira (316 m) Casa do Infante in Porto (351 m)

You may also be interested in

Most Porto cellars and wine lodges are located in Vila Nova de Gaia, on the other side of the Douro River. Porto wine has been produced in this region for several centuries, ageing the world’s most famous fortified wine in wooden barrels.

Ramos Pinto Port Winery

Established by Adriano Ramos Pinto in 1880, the Ramos Pinto Cellar is one of the most renowned in the city.

Touring Sandeman Port Cellars in Porto

Port wine is probably the most famous product from Portugal, and likely one of the first things to come to mind when thinking about the country. And while having Port in Portugal is an obvious must, touring the port cellars in Porto is a close second. After seeing the Port vineyards and wineries in Douro Valley , we toured Sandeman Port Cellars in Porto to complete our Port in Portugal experience.

Sandeman dates back to 1790, when two Scottish brothers started the company with just £300. Yes, Scots founded a Portuguese Port brand! Thanks to the popularity of Port in England, many original Port producers were British . That’s why so many have English names (like Croft, Taylor’s, and Graham’s).

As an iconic and historical brand, touring Sandeman Port cellars is an excellent example of how port ages in Vila Nova De Gaia, Porto.

Let’s talk About Port

Port is a fortified wine, meaning a neutral grain spirit is added to the wine . It stops the fermentation, increases alcohol percentage (to about 20%), and — its original purpose — makes it easier to transport. Made from five different grapes, Port must be made in Portugal to have that prestigious name.

(If not made in Portugal, it’s called Port-style wine or described as tawny. Except in the United States, where “Port” is not legally protected and does not mean the wine is from Portugal. So check the bottle for an authenticity stamp or location of origin stating Portugal.)

The grapes grow on the mountainous vineyards in the Douro Valley, about a two hour drive from Porto. I highly recommend taking a day trip to the Douro Valley to see the vineyards — it was one of the highlights of our trip! After being made in Douro, the wine makes its way to Porto’s Vila Nova de Gaia neighborhood for aging. Historically transported by boat on the Douro River, today the wine makes gets to the city in a truck. (Boring, but much more reliable!)

Aging Port in Vila Nova de Gaia

The neighborhood of Vila Nova de Gaia, on the south side of Porto, is perfect for aging Port . For one, being next to the Douro River meant the wine could originally be transported from the vineyards by boat. Two, it’s somewhat sheltered from strong winds and direct sunlight, keeping the temperature more mild (and better for aging). And third, it’s outside of Porto, so producers avoided paying taxes in the 13th Century. (Everything comes down to politics at some point, right?)

Today Port cellars line the streets of Vila Nova de Gaia. Literally, dozens are nearby each other: Ferreira, Sandeman, and Graham’s on the river; Taylor’s, Cockburn, and others behind them. But touring the Port cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia is not like visiting most wineries or distilleries . Tours require advance reservations. Unlike many other wine-tasting regions , not even tastings are possible without reservations. So plan ahead!

Touring Sandeman Port Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia

The lobby of Sandeman Cellars opens to a Port museum, with artifacts about the wine’s history and bottles dating to the 1600s. After perusing the museum, our tour guide walked us through an alley of barrels in every size imaginable. Many are small, stacked on top of each other; others are 20,000 liters. There are even a few 100,000 liter barrels that can last 100 years! The larger vats slow oxidation while smaller barrels give more wood flavor to the wine.

We walked along barrels and barrels, then passed bottles of Vintage Port, a few dating back to 1908! Vintage Port, from a single vintage and declared to be one of the best by The Port & Douro Wine Institute, spends 2-3 years aging in a barrel before spending decades in the bottle.

Sandeman Port

Besides Vintage Port, there are several different types of Port each with their own tasting profiles. Ruby Port , vibrant in color and taste, aged in steel or concrete. White Port , bright and fruity, made with white grapes and unaged. And Tawny Port , sweet and nutty, aged for decades in wood. The age of Tawny ports is an average of the wine in the bottle.

Our tour included a tasting of four Tawny Ports in the private tasting room. The Tawny 10 Year (23€) was darker (an indication of youth), with flavors of ripe fruits and raisins. The Tawny 20 Year (49€) was more balanced, with flavors of honey, nuts, and vanilla. My favorite, the Tawny 30 Year (120€), with dried apricots, hazelnuts and vanilla flavors. And the Tawny 40 Year (156€) had flavors of oak and honey with dried fruits and a lingering finish.

The tour ended in the gift shop, of course, where we shopped for wine, vintage advertisements, and glasses. I couldn’t leave without a bottle of Tawny 20 Year. Even though it’s available in the States, having it from Sandeman Cellars was a perfect souvenir.

Taking a tour of Sandeman Port Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia is a must do in Porto. But remember: tours require advance reservations. You can make them online here . Tours range from 14-42€. Or tour several cellars together with a tour like this one .

Related :: Day Trip to Douro Valley Wine Region in Portugal , What to Eat in Portugal , and Why Portugal is Perfect in Winter

Disclaimer :: I was graciously treated to this tour at no cost. As always, all opinions are my own. • Some of the links in this post are affiliate links and I may receive a commission from them. Thank you for supporting the companies that support Whiskied Wanderlust.

6 Reasons to Spend Christmas in New Orleans

You may also like.

A Dinner to Remember :: Bar Raval in Toronto

7 Tips for a Day Trip to Barolo from Milan

A Day Trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto

What do you think cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Sandeman cellars tours.

• Things to do

I only need accommodations for part of my trip

Visit Sandeman Cellars

Taste exquisite Porto wine at Portugal’s Sandeman Cellars on the beautiful Douro River. Enjoy an enlightening tour of historic pinewood cellars and gaze over the UNESCO site of Porto from this expansive winery.

Porto is a Portuguese distilled wine made exclusively in the scenic Douro Valley of northern Portugal. Learn about the aging process of Porto’s wines in these historic surroundings, by choosing from three enjoyable tours of the Sandeman Cellars, established in 1790.

On the Classic Tour, follow winding corridors through the cellars and pick up local knowledge about Porto’s history and its wines. Savor the pleasant aromas drifting from the wooden vats that line the cellars’ walls. As the visit ends in a spacious tasting room, sample rich ruby and tawny Portos in a traditional atmosphere amid dark oak barrels.

For a longer visit, acquire more detailed Porto wine knowledge on the 1790s tour. Indulge in an intensive wine-tasting session and experience the sweet, full-bodied flavors of five unique ports. Alternatively, book the luxurious Old Tawnies Tour to try 10-, 20-, 30- and 40-year-old Portos as a spectrum of precious wines are laid out before you.

Tours are available in several languages with friendly, animated and knowledgeable guides. Enjoy their captivating “Don” costumes of black capes and wide-brimmed hats reminiscent of Spanish caballeros. During wine tastings, the seasoned team of winemakers can answer any questions.

After your tour, visit the on-site museum for an interesting history of the brand, as you amble through an exhibit of photography, paintings, ceramics, antique bottles and other memorabilia collected through the centuries. Afterward, relax outside the cellars with tapas and wine pairings and admire views over the colorful city of Porto.

From Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, take a 20-minute taxi ride directly to Sandeman Cellars. If you are staying in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia, walk a scenic 30-minute route from the city center.

Whether or not you are a wine connoisseur, enjoy the visit to Sandeman Cellars and explore this heritage landmark with its impressive views over Porto and many gallons of tasty Porto wine.

Plan a trip to see Sandeman Cellars

Pestana Palacio do Freixo, Pousada & National Monument - The Leading Hotels of the World

Reviewed on Apr 6, 2024

• GA Palace Hotel

Reviewed on Apr 13, 2024

Torel Avantgarde

Reviewed on Apr 12, 2024

Browse tours and tickets to explore Sandeman Cellars

Food, drink & nightlife.

Douro Valley Wine Tour: 3 Vineyard Visits, Wine Tastings, Lunch

From Porto: Braga and Guimarães Full-Day Trip

From Porto: Douro Valley Small Group Food and Wine Tour

Porto 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting Tour

Douro Valley Tour: 2 Vineyard Visits, River Cruise, Winery Lunch

Santiago de Compostela Full-Day Tour From Porto

From Porto: Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca 516 Footbridge

Porto Half-Day City Tour

Porto: Live Fado Show with Glass of Port Wine

Porto: Guided Historical Center Tuk Tuk Tour

Water activities.

Porto: River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise

Porto: Daytime or Sunset Douro River Sightseeing Cruise

Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting

Douro Valley: 2 Wineries, Tastings, Cruise, & Lunch

Porto: City Train Tour, River Cruise & Wine Cellar

Aveiro: Half-Day Tour from Porto with Cruise

1h Private Boat Tour between Afurada and Ribeira

Douro Valley: Tour with Wine Tastings, Cruise, and Lunch

Matosinhos: Surfing Lesson with Equipment

Shopping & fashion.

Porto: Guided Tour-Full City & Surroundings-in a 60´s Vw Van

Private Tour to Nazaré and Alcobaça, giant waves and a monastery

Private Tour to Oporto from Vigo Cruise Terminal

Tour vintage Vw Kombi van - downtown 2h

Private Tour to the rock art of Côa Park, Pinhão and Winery

Private Chauffeur Service and Executive Car Hire - 4 Hours Custom

Adventure & outdoor.

Waterfall, Lagoon and Old Village in Peneda-Gerês National Park

From Porto: Off-Road Buggy Adventure

Private Tour through Tomar, Fátima, and Batalha historical sites

From Lisbon to Porto, stop in 2 or 3 of its most beautiful cities

From Porto: Paiva Walkways and Arouca 516 Footbridge

Porto Adventure - Explore the City from Inside

Private CityTour Tuk Vintage Car Tour in Porto

Small Group Peneda Geres National Park Full Day Tour from Porto

From Porto: Canyoning - Adventure Tour

Attractions.

The Wine Experience Entry Ticket & Tasting at WOW

The Chocolate Story Entry Ticket at WOW

The Bridge Collection Entry Ticket at WOW

Porto Region Across The Ages Entry Ticket at WOW

Porto Walking Tour - The Perfect Introduction to the City

Combo Ticket for WOW Cultural District

E-ticket to Porto National Museum Soares dos Reis

Porto: Old Town Self-Guided Discovery Tour

Pink Palace Entry Ticket & Tasting at WOW

Porto Indoor Mini Golf Experience with Bar

Reviews of sandeman cellars, 5/5 - excellent.

Visited their tasting room on a Douro Valley wine tour.

I found this too expensive for what we got.

Buy 1 or 2 day hop-on-off bus. WIne tasting is included

Popular places to visit

Gaia cable car.

You can take time to visit Gaia Cable Car during your travels to Santa Marinha e São Pedro da Afurada. Stroll along the waterfront or seek out the local tours.

• Ribeira Square

Perched on the banks of the River Douro, Ribeira Square is one of Porto’s oldest and most exciting districts.

• Dom Luis I Bridge

Enjoy fantastic city views from this fine old bridge and admire its intricate ironwork, reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower.

Church of Sao Francisco

See the stunning gold-coated interior, ancient religious artifacts and fascinating catacombs of one of Portugal’s most beautiful churches.

Stock Exchange Palace

Rich with history, Stock Exchange Palace is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Sao Nicolau. Visit the area's shops or amble around its waterfront.

Fernandina Wall

You can find out about the history of Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau e Vitória when you stop by Fernandina Wall. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Best Lodging Options Near Sandeman Cellars

Check availability on hotels close to sandeman cellars.

• Vacations and getaways similar to Sandeman Cellars
• Other Hotels near Sandeman Cellars, Santa Marinha
• Hotels near popular Porto Attractions
• More Hotel Options in Sandeman Cellars
• Expedia's Latest Trends
• Porto Historic Center
• Porto Cathedral
• Livraria Lello
• Casa da Musica
• Norte Shopping
• Porto City Hall
• Bolhao Market
• Matosinhos Beach
• Clerigos Tower
• University of Porto
• Aliados Square
• Dragao Stadium
• Douro River Lighthouse
• The Rebello Hotel & Spa
• Selina Porto
• PortoBay Flores
• HF Fénix Porto
• The Yeatman Hotel
• Memoria Porto FLH Hotels
• Hotel Porto Interface Trindade By Kavia
• Fontinha Porto, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
• YOTEL Porto
• The Editory House Ribeira Porto Hotel
• PortoBay Teatro
• Hotels near Porto Historic Center
• Hotels near Ribeira Square
• Hotels near Port of Leixões Cruise Terminal
• Hotels near Porto Cathedral
• Hotels near Livraria Lello
• Hotels near Casa da Musica
• Hotels near Norte Shopping
• Hotels near Dom Luis I Bridge
• Hotels near Porto City Hall
• Hotels near Bolhao Market
• Hotels near Matosinhos Beach
• Hotels near Espinho Beach
• Hotels near Clerigos Tower
• Hotels near University of Porto
• Hotels near Aliados Square
• Hotels near Dragao Stadium
• Hotels near Douro River Lighthouse
• Hotels near Vila Nova de Gaia
• Hotels near EXPONOR - Porto International Fair
• Hotels near SEA LIFE Porto
• Golf Hotels (71)
• Historic Hotels (340)
• Hotel Wedding Venues (25)
• Hotels with Restaurants (306)

This website uses Cookies

Our website uses cookies only to optimize your navigation. We never gather any personal data without your consent. For further information read our Terms and conditions of use and privacy.

Sandeman Cellars in Porto...

The Sandeman Porto Cellars welcome guests from all over the world and is landmark spot for visitors to Porto and the North of Portugal. Located on the riverbank of Vila Nova de Gaia, The House of Sandeman building boasts one of the best views of Porto, a city declared as World Heritage by UNESCO. This handsome building is believed to be the work of the architect Joaquim da Costa Lima Sampaio, who also designed the city’s Royal Palace and may have been built as early as 1797. Sandeman took possession of this majestic building in 1811.

"We hope that a visit to our cellars will give a unique opportunity for guests to delve more deeply into the history of Porto, one of the world’s great wines, and of Sandeman, one of the leading brands in the Porto trade" George Sandeman.

Sandeman Cellars

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

SANDEMAN CELLARS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Porto city half-day private tour (From £130.06)
• Private Tour Porto With Departure From Lisbon (From £281.81)
• Porto Private Tour from Lisbon (From £339.90)
• Private Tour Full Day Fátima - Porto - Óbidos - from Lisbon (From £390.19)
• Porto Private Tour from Lisbon (From £355.50)
• (0.02 mi) The House of Sandeman Hostel & Suites
• (0.03 mi) Charm Guest House Douro
• (0.04 mi) Charm GuestHouse Douro
• (0.04 mi) Porta 33 Porto Rio
• (0.05 mi) 296 Heritage Apartments
• (0.02 mi) A Copo Vinhos & Tapas
• (0.02 mi) Meet&Taste Portugal
• (0.03 mi) Solar Dos Dragos Porto & Douro Wines
• (0.03 mi) Beira Douro
• (0.03 mi) The George Restaurant & Terrace

Sandeman Wine Cellar

Wine cellar in porto.

The Sandeman Port Cellar in Porto is a renowned and historic establishment that offers an immersive experience into the world of port wine. Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Porto, the Sandeman Cellar is steeped in tradition and known for its exceptional range of port wines.

Sandeman, founded in 1790, has a rich legacy in the production and aging of port wines. The cellar itself is an architectural gem, featuring a distinctive façade adorned with the iconic black-caped figure known as “The Don.” This symbol has become synonymous with Sandeman and represents the brand’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

A visit to the Sandeman Port Cellar provides an opportunity to explore the fascinating history and winemaking process behind their renowned ports. Guided tours take visitors through the atmospheric cellars, where rows of oak barrels and casks hold the aging treasures of Sandeman. Knowledgeable guides share the company’s history, highlighting the meticulous techniques used to create their exceptional port wines.

During the tour, visitors can learn about the different styles of port produced by Sandeman, ranging from the rich and robust Vintage Ports to the smooth and elegant Tawny Ports. Discover the art of blending, aging, and the unique characteristics that make Sandeman ports stand out.

To enhance the experience, the Sandeman Port Cellar often incorporates multimedia presentations, historical artefacts, and interactive exhibits, offering a deeper understanding of the port wine industry and the brand’s heritage.

A visit to the Sandeman Cellar typically concludes with a delightful tasting session. Guests have the opportunity to sample a selection of Sandeman’s distinguished ports, guided by experienced staff who share insights into the flavours, aromas, and nuances of each wine.

The Sandeman Port Cellar offers a captivating journey into the world of port wine, combining history, craftsmanship, and exceptional wines. It is an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts and those seeking to explore the unique heritage of port wine production in Porto.

The Sandeman Wine Cellar appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Porto !

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Visiting Sandeman Wine Cellar

Offered daily, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm in multiple languages.

Tours and port tastings start at €19 and range from 3 to 5 port wines.

Nearby Attractions

• Espaço Porto Cruz (0.0) km Wine Cellar in Porto
• Calém Wine Cellars (0.1) km Wine Cellar in Porto
• Jardim do Morro (0.2) km Gardens and Viewing Point in Porto
• Praça da Ribeira (Ribeira Square) (0.3) km Square in Porto
• Dom Luís I Bridge (0.4) km Bridge in Porto
• Casa do Infante in Porto (0.4) km Historic Building in Porto
• Serra do Pilar Monastery (0.4) km Monastery in Porto
• Funicular dos Guindais (0.4) km Railway in Porto
• Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar, Porto (0.4) km Wine Cellar in Porto
• Church of São Francisco (Porto) (0.5) km Church in Porto

Tours and Activities from Porto

Similar blogs.

Which Six Bridges cruise in Porto should I take?

When researching what to do in Porto you will probably have come across boat trips on the Douro River and especially the 6 bridges cruise. The 6 Bridges Cruise is the most cost-effective boat trip and a great way to learn about the history and culture of Porto. The tour is usually on a replica […]

Guide to Port Wine Cellars in Porto

The allure of Porto extends to its renowned wine scene, making it a must-visit destination. Located in northern Portugal, the neighbouring Douro Valley region stands as the exclusive birthplace of Europe’s beloved port wines. While fortified wines similar to port can be crafted in various regions worldwide, European regulations strictly define that only wines originating […]

Self Guided Walking Tour of Porto (with Maps!)

Prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting city center of Porto, a true gem of Europe that has been bestowed with the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your journey begins at the magnificent Clérigos Church, standing tall with its towering 75.6 meter structure. As you embark on this captivating exploration with your […]

• Santiago de Chile
• Santiago de Compostela

Porto Wine Tasting Tour

Experience Porto's famous Port wine on this delicious 2.5-hour tour

Due to the unusual tourism situation currently developing, we have temporarily suspended this tour.

ABOUT THE Porto Wine Tasting Tour

People come from all over the world to taste Porto's famous Port wine, and once you joined this tour, you'll see why. With access to the iconic Sandeman cellar, not only will you taste some of the best Port wine in the world, you'll also hear from an expert guide, and even visit another venue where you get to sample an assortment of delicious cheeses.

The Porto Wine Tasting Tour starts in front of the Sandeman wine cellar and finishes inside the tasting room of the Sandeman Cellar.

You can't visit Porto without tasting Port wine

No trip to Porto would be complete without a Port wine tasting! The Port cellars lining the beautiful Douro River use only grapes grown in the surrounding Douro Valley, which is probably the most technically difficult wine-growing region in the world.

Visit the world-famous Sandeman cellars with SANDEMANs tours!

Join this premium experience of one of the most famous wine cellars in not only the region, but the world – the Sandeman cellars. While the cellars and SANDEMANs NEW Porto are not related today, the cellar was founded eight generations ago by our founder’s family. On this 2.5-hour tour, you’ll be taken through the rich history of producing Port, as well as the legacy of this family business and of course, will be able to taste the Port itself.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment

Please note that due to the limited capacity of the cellar, only 25 tickets are available daily. Enjoy the best Port wine that Porto has to offer, and reserve your spot for this great local experience.

Your Porto Wine Tasting Tour starts in front of the Sandeman wine cellar, Largo Miguel Bombarda 3

• Enjoy five wine tastings
• Taste an assortment of local cheeses
• Take a guided cellar visit

TOUR SCHEDULES

This tour doesn‘t run today

Click on 'See more dates' to check availability

• Five wine tastings
• An assortment of local cheeses
• A guided cellar visit
• Additional wine and cheese
• Wheelchair accessible
• Children under 9 years old are welcome on this tour for free
• Children from 10 to 17 years old can join for €10 and the prices includes a soft drink and a snack

Customer reviews

We did two tours with Sandeman during our 3 day visit in Porto:  The Porto Wine Tour on a Saturday with Ines, and the Free Walking Tour with Diogo on Sunday. Both tours were just amazing, the guides were great, they answered all the questions and gave great recommendations! We totally recommend both tours!

Sandeman Wine Tour with Maria

My 5 friends and I had such an amazing tour with Maria -- she was personal, super knowledgeable, and kind. She was really happy to give recommendations and available for questions throughout the tour and afterwards, and she was engaging, calm, and attentive. I highly recommend her tour!

Sandeman Wine Tour

The wine tour was great! We drank 5 classes of port wine. I loved the wine bar we went to after for more port wine, cheese and chips. The people on the tour were so fun, and the tour of the cellar was very interesting.

Excellent Porto Wine Tasting Tour! Would highly recommend! Ines was a fantastic tour guide with a great knowledge of the history of port, and the city in general. Tried some delicious port, and was overall a great experience!

Good tour, interesting story about the history of the company and the founders. Fun to see the vats and barrels and the date on each to get a feel for the age of the wine. Of course the tasting at the end is very important for any wine tour, well done.

Free tour and wine cellars Porto

We had a really nice time in Porto. Diogo was a great guide, the free tour was indeed super interesting and fun. We also took the cellars tour with Inés, we definetely enjoyed the visit and the tasting. Both tours are highly recommended.

Taste the best that Porto has to offer!

You can see the beautiful sites of Porto, and hear the local sounds, but no trip here would be complete without tasting some of the local culture too!

Our tasting experiences take you to bars, restaurants, pubs and beer gardens to taste the local food and drinks, and experience the local culture, atmosphere and flavors of the city!

We believe in supporting local communities, which is why we take you to local establishments on all of our tasting tours. All our tasting experiences have a fixed ticket price and include food and drink specials. Some of our tasting experiences have a maximum capacity so we recommend booking in advance, either during a Free Tour or online.

Enjoy Port wine with SANDEMANs

• Experienced leaders
• Delicious Port wine and cheese
• Exclusive offers
• Affordable prices

WALKING TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN PORTO

• Select Tour
• Third Party Activity
• Private Tour

Free Tour of Porto

Book the original Porto free walking tour and visit many of the city's highlights with a local guide

Day Trip to Guimaraes

A perfect day trip from Porto to the charming birthplace of Portugal

Porto Boat Tour

Experience Porto from the magnificent Douro River on this six bridges cruise

Wine Cellar Tour and Tasting

No trip to Porto is complete without an authentic wine cellar tour and tasting!

Ribeira Free Walking Tour

The scenic walking tour that explores Porto's neighbourhoods along the Douro riverbanks

2-hour Porto Highlights Private Tour

Make the most out of your visit and discover Porto's top attractions with your private tour guide

3-hour Porto Private City Tour

Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Porto's fascinating history and must-see sites with your private t ...

Tell us the landmarks, stories or parts of the city you want to see, how long you have to see them and when you want to go, and we’ll build an itinerary that suits you.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam

Thank you! Your support means more to us than we can express in words. Chris Sandeman and the SANDEMANs Live Community

Give anything you want

Wrong price format. Please enter a valid price.

Please enter a price greater than 0.

Payment is secured with

13 Best Port Wine Cellars in Porto

• 3 Pinterest

To help you decide which are the best Port wine cellars in Porto , I made the selfless sacrifice of setting out to visit all of the Port wine cellars across the river from Porto while taking ample notes of my experience (between sips of Port, of course).

Not everyone is aware of the connection between the city of Porto and Port wine before their first visit, but once arriving to this homey metropolis nestled on a hill between the Douro River and the Atlantic sea, there’s no avoiding the importance of this sweet, fortified wine for centuries past up until today.

A trip to Porto would be incomplete without taking a stroll across the Luís I Bridge for a tour and wine tasting at one (or more!) of the many Port wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most delicious and rewarding things to do in Porto .

But how do you choose which one to visit? There are over a dozen options to choose from, and each one has wonderful wine to taste and impressive cellars stacked with hundreds of barrels to see.

No need to fear. Your friendly wine expert is here. No matter if you’re a complete beginner to the world of wine or can distinguish a Pinot from a Primitivo, there’s plenty for you to enjoy during a Port wine tour in Porto.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Port wine cellars in Porto

1 – Cálem

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 1613 reviews )

“The Fado show was absolutely fantastic.” Akvile, Getyourguide

The Cálem Cellars and Fado Show is certainly a crowd favorite among visitors to Porto. Not only do you get to take a tour of the Cálem Cellars where they store and age millions of liters of Port wine, but you also get to sample two glasses of their Port while enjoying a live show of Fado music.

Before your tour starts, you can enjoy a modern Port wine museum in the waiting area. During the tour, you’ll also be treated to innovative installations that help demonstrate the capacity and functionality of the large vats and barrels.

• check offer

Although Cálem Cellar tours are not the most exclusive experience with group sizes of up to 45 people, the guide will give you a comprehensive overview of how the different styles of Port wine are made.

This is a perfect introduction for those just discovering Port wine, and the fado show during the tasting makes for a complete Portuguese experience at an excellent price.

• compare Cálem cellars tours

2 – Cockburn’s Port Lodge

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 1180 reviews )

“Thoroughly enjoyed the tour and found the story of Cockburn port absolutely fascinating.” Anne, Civitatis

Cockburn’s Lodge is one of the most unique Port wine cellars that you can visit in Porto for two reasons. First, it’s the largest in the area, with over 10 million liters of wine aged in hundreds of wooden vats and barrels. Second, it’s the only one with an on-site cooperage, where you can witness the coopers in action repairing barrels and fixing vats.

Each tour is the same, but the difference in ticket price determines how premium your wine and tasting room will be and whether it will be paired with cheese or chocolate.

The Cockburn’s Lodge is one of the most impressive and authentic Port wine cellars you can visit. The facility is not only the largest in the city but also features a grand cobblestoned hallway that makes an impact when you suddenly turn a corner and face the seemingly endless rows of wooden vats and barrels.

• compare Cockburn’s Lodge tours

3 – Graham’s Port Lodge

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 251 reviews )

“The views of Porto from the winery are incredible.” María José, Civitatis

Graham’s Port Lodge is one of the most internationally recognizable Port wine brands and an official Port supplier to the British royal family. Graham’s distinguished cellar and tasting rooms reflect the refined style of the stereotypically elegant English gentleman.

Whether you choose to indulge in their entry-level Ports in the main tasting room or treat yourself to a premium selection in the VIP Vintage Room, you’ll gain an appreciation of how Graham’s Port wine has consistently stood out from the pack since the early 19th century.

Graham’s and Cockburn’s are both owned and operated by the same family, Symington Family Estates , so there may be some overlap of information in the tours. However, the two brands and lodges couldn’t be more different.

Whereas Cockburn’s provides a behind-the-scenes look at the craft of the cooperage, Graham’s tasting room offers impeccable views over Porto and the riverside that are simply breathtaking.

• compare Graham’s Port Lodge tours

4 – Burmester Winery

Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 ( 731 reviews )

“Very nice place, cozy, the guide was very professional.” María, Civitatis

Burmester Cellars was first established in 1750, making it one of the oldest Port wine houses you can visit in Vila Nova de Gaia. You can choose from three types of tours, where you’ll sample two to three types of Port wine and maybe even pair them with chocolate!

Children are welcome but aren’t allowed to sample the wine, of course. Visitors 17 and under only pay half-price admission, and kids five and under can join the tour for free. Get ready to step back in time to see winemaking methods that have hardly changed since the 18th century.

Burmester is the only Port wine cellar along the riverside set east of the Dom Luís I bridge. A highlight of the tour is an outdoor space where you can take advantage of Burmester’s location for a unique photo op with the other side of the bridge as a background. (Unfortunately, it was raining heavily during our visit, so we couldn’t do this ourselves.)

This tour is slightly shorter than others, both in terms of time and distance, so it’s a good option if you have impatient little ones or less mobile older ones in your group. Burmester is also one of the only houses with a German co-founder, which is another reason to visit if you have German roots.

• compare Burmester cellars tours

5 – Quevedo

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 156 reviews )

“Excellent value for money, great guide and the port was also excellent.” Stefan, Getyourguide

Quevedo is one of the new kids on the block compared to the other Port wine houses, as the Quevedo brand is younger than most of the visitors who come to their tasting room, having been established in 1993.

However, the winemaking traditions of the Quevedo family go back over five generations, and this expertise is evident in the quality of their Port wine. Although there are no Quevedo cellars to visit in Porto, there’s a beautiful two-story tasting room to try not only Port wine but also dry red and white wines — and even a housemade gin.

Quevedo’s wine specialist, Michael, was a gracious host for the Port wine tasting — paired with cheese and chocolate, which I highly recommend. The low-key vibes of the space make it easy to feel comfortable and relaxed without the overly formal and rigid structure you might come across in other tastings. The aged white Ports are an uncommon style you must try while there.

• see price & reviews

6 – Taylor’s Lodge

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 3 reviews )

“This was a great outing. The personal touch of the tour guide and the meal we had was excellent.” Barry, Viator

Taylor’s is one of the preeminent names in Port wine and one of two official suppliers to the British royal family. Taylor’s Lodge cellar tours are unique for two main factors — they’re self-guided and no pre-booking is necessary.

However, for a truly special afternoon, you can have an experienced guide chauffeur you to the seaside in Matosinhos for a seafood lunch followed by a visit to Taylor’s for a Port wine tasting.

At first, I was suspicious about the self-guided nature of the cellar tour, but my suspicions were soon alleviated. It was liberating to have the freedom to skip information I already knew and focus on the parts that were most interesting to me. Being able to control the pace of the tour is also a major benefit, especially for those on a tight schedule.

• compare Port wine cellars in Porto

7 – Real Companhia Velha

Rating: ⭐️ 3.9/5 ( 570 reviews )

“Good value for money. Nice quick city tour.” Bernard, Getyourguide

Kick your feet up and settle in for a magic train ride around the enchanted city of Porto. Hop in at Sé Cathedral and be whisked across the Don Luís I bridge to the headquarters of one of the oldest Port wine brands — Real Companhia Velha .

After tasting two glasses of Port wine, jump back on the train and cross back over the river for a sightseeing tour of all the must-see spots in the historic center of Porto, including Clerigos Tower and the well-known Lello Bookshop.

This is a great budget option, especially if you’re traveling with little ones who may not be up for walking up and down the hills of Porto all day. The main downside is that at Real Companhia Velha, you taste Port wines in their welcome area but don’t visit where the wine is aged in vats and barrels.

8 – Caves Poças

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 104 reviews )

“Small group, quite informal. Thoroughly enjoyed it.” Benjamin, Tiqets

Poças is one of the rare stories of a Port wine house that was founded and remains in the hands of one Portuguese family. On a tour of its cellars, you can learn more about this unique family history and the brand’s success over the centuries.

Poças Cellars offers seasonal wine-tasting menus where you can focus on dry red and white wines, Port wines or a mixture of them all.

Poças Cellars is a great place to visit for a Port wine tour and wine tasting not only for the beauty of its tasting room but also for the fact that you can enjoy tastings that offer a selection of their dry wines and Ports, especially appealing for those who don’t have much of a sweet tooth.

• see price and reviews

9 – Fonseca Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 57 reviews )

“Plenty of food and wine and an excellent fado singer. Beautiful dinner setting with candle lights.” Michael, Getyourguide

Fonseca wines are one of the most well-known Port brands in the world, particularly in the United States and Canada. On a visit to their cellars, you can sample some of their best vintage ports and see first-hand where they age their acclaimed Fonseca Bin nº27.

Located just a stone’s throw away from Taylor’s and the WOW museum, it’s easy to find. Consider stopping by Fonseca Port Cellars on a Saturday evening to take advantage of their newest program — a guided tour followed by dinner and a fado show.

The main draw of this Fonseca tour is the delectable 3-course meal included with the visit and wine tasting. The fado shows in the other cellars only allow you to sip on a glass of Port, but at this time of the early evening, it makes perfect sense to combine a dinner with the show.

• compare Fonseca cellars tours

10 – Kopke Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 (99 reviews)

“The tour was intimate and a lovely way to experience the city [at] some unique spots off the beaten path.” Caroline, Viator

Billing itself as the oldest Port wine brand, Kopke was founded way back in 1638, making it the pioneer in shipping Port wine internationally. Your guide will reveal how the city was back then and much earlier to its founding, pre-dating Roman times.

Your guide from C&D Porto Local Tours will ensure that your mind is full of engaging stories, your eyes are overwhelmed by beautiful views, and your palate is drenched in the sweet nectar of Port wine.

This tour is a good choice if you’re interested in sightseeing and learning about the history of Porto more than wine tasting, as the Port wine portion of the tour will only be about one-fourth of the experience.

• compare price & reviews

11 – Sandeman Port Wine Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 (589 reviews)

“The tour, history, and tasting were excellent. A very knowledgeable guide.” Steve, Tripadvisor

Sandeman is responsible for what must be the most iconic visual symbol of Port wine — the caped Zorro-like figure known as the Don. Sandeman introduced this image in the early 20th century, which has since been featured on countless ads and billboards worldwide.

On a guided tour of the Sandeman Port Wine Cellars, you can follow the Don (yes, the guide wears a wide-brimmed hat and cape) to learn more about the history of the brand and see where Sandeman ages and stores its many, many liters of Port wine.

Although not as exclusive as some of the cellar tours described above, Sandeman offers an array of high-quality tours and tastings making it one of the best options among the cellars situated along the riverside.

12 – Ramos Pinto Lodge & Visitor Center

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 (969 reviews)

 “Informative tour (fun facts and not at all boring!). Fantastic port to taste. Well worth a visit!” Lainey, TripAdvisor

Ramos Pinto is one of the few Port wine houses with a Portuguese name, as most of the branding and international export has been handled by non-Portuguese shipping companies, most commonly run and founded by British and Dutch families.

Another factor that makes Ramos Pinto unique is their strong market presence in Brazil, so don’t be surprised if you’re unfamiliar with the brand. Consider pairing your tour and tasting with a visit to Casa São Roque — the former residence of António Ramos Pinto.

The brand’s founder, Adriano Ramos Pinto, studied art in Porto before entering the wine industry and was a pioneer in the marketing of Port wine. His influence is clear to this day, as you can appreciate when viewing the elegant labeling and adverts for Ramos Pinto Port in their museum.

13 – Vasconcellos

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 (271 reviews)

“Learnt a lot and tasted some great wines.” Peter. TripAdvisor

Vasconcellos is not one of the most recognizable Port wine brands outside Portugal. However, domestically, it has maintained a reputation for quality since the late nineteenth century.

Located halfway between the cellars of Cálem and Ferreira, this smaller producer offers tastings with a view of Porto across the river. Although you can try all different styles of Port, the showcase wine is certainly the 80-year-old tawny.

Although I haven’t yet had the possibility to visit Vasconcellos in person, according to the reviews, most people love it, but there’s a vocal minority who didn’t have the best experience. There’s a sense that things function off-script here, which some find authentic and endearing while others find it confusing and dishonest.

Best Port Wine Cellar Tours in Porto

Maybe you’re thinking to yourself, “One Port wine cellar isn’t enough. Give me more! More!” If so, I don’t blame you. I’ve been there myself. No need to fear. The right tour is here.

There are plenty of Port wine cellar tours that’ll take you to several spots and even throw into the mix a rooftop bar or typical restaurant. Check out my personally curated list below for the ones I think are the best of the best.

If you’re looking for tours that go beyond the Port wine cellars, like a day trip into the Douro Valley or a tasting of dry wines, you can refer to a separate list of the best wine tours and tastings in Porto .

1 – Living Tours Porto City Tour & Port Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 573 reviews )

“Very good guide, very friendly and very knowledgeable.” Catherine, Civitatis.

Living Tours organizes the perfect budget option if you’re interested in combining a guided walking tour around Porto’s historic center with bus transportation across the river to a Port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia.

After meeting at São Bento train station, you’ll explore Sé Cathedral, Clérigos Tower, and the Lello Bookshop before hopping on the bus and capping off your tour with a Port wine tasting at one of the historic Port wine lodges with views over the Douro River.

This tour is great for all ages as the bus transport eliminates the need to trek up the steep hills in downtown Porto, which may prove too much of a challenge for younger or older guests. Tick off a good number of must-see attractions and must-do activities in just a few fun-filled hours.

2 – Port & Douro Wine Tastings at Cálem, Churchill’s & Quinta de Noval

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 564 reviews )

“Amazing guide, great wines, strongly recommend.” Marta, Getyourguide

If you want to try some non-sweet Douro wines along with some Port, this is the tour for you. Enjoy a total of 10 tastings at three different wine cellars while learning about the history of producing fortified and non-fortified wines in the Douro Valley.

You’ll meet your guide along the riverside of the Cais de Gaia and then stroll around the cobblestone alleyways from one wine cellar to the next to sample the best Port and Douro wines that each one has to offer.

Without a doubt, you get plenty of bang for your buck with this tour as far as wine tasting goes. The chance to try ten different wines in just a few hours is a challenge that most wine lovers would happily accept. This is also a good option if someone in your party stubbornly opposes sweet wines, as traditional robust red wines are also on the menu.

3 – Seven Tastings at Three Port Wine Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1046 reviews )

“Absolutely love this tour, so much so this is my second time doing it.” Ricardo, Viator

Porto Walkers operates this whirlwind half-day walking tour to three different Port wine houses, where you’ll try seven glasses of this delectable fortified wine. Your guide will typically take you to Cálem Cellars , the Porto Cruz rooftop bar and the Vasques de Carvalho wine bar and shop, all overlooking the Douro River.

At each Port wine cellar, you’ll have the chance to sample two to three Port wines and shop for bottles and other souvenirs to take back home with you, all while enjoying the scenic views on the cobblestone streets and rooftops of Vila Nova de Gaia.

This tour lets you experience some of the best views of Porto from the Cais de Gaia while tasting and exploring three of the most well-known Port houses in the area. If you’re not afraid of a little walking, you can make the most of this comprehensive, half-day tour.

4 – Sunset Walking Tour & Rooftop Port Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 50 reviews )

“Insight into the real Porto of locals […] I came away with some amazing tips for restaurants!” Sarah, Getyourguide

This is the perfect tour for rooftop bar lovers and for those who want to combine a Porto walking tour with visits to some of the most scenic views over the city from both sides of the river.

Although this tour doesn’t include a visit to any of the Port wine cellars, it’s a great option if you’ve already done a cellar tour or if you want to take full advantage of a sunny Portuguese afternoon.

Although this tour doesn’t stop at any of the Port wine cellars, it’s a wonderful option for those who can’t get enough of rooftop bars and would enjoy sampling Port wines in the sunshine and fresh air overlooking this picturesque city at the golden hour.

5 – Candlelight Concerts at Ferreira Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 4.1/5 (495 reviews)

“The cellars are absolutely extraordinary and are rich with history dating back 100+ years.” Michelle, TripAdvisor

Ferreira is the second-to-last Port wine cellar along the riverside if you’re walking west from the Dom Luís I Bridge. They offer eight different tickets for tastings and tours, including one which is quite different — a combo ticket with the contemporary art museum, Serralves.

Ferreira Cellars has a grand entryway to host events and activities. One of the most romantic and enchanting of these are the Candlelight Concerts. If you happen to be visiting Porto at the same time that Ferreira hosts one of these concerts, make sure not to miss it.

• candlelight concerts in Porto

Ferreira and Sandeman are both under the same parent company, Sogrape , so the design of their tours and tastings are similar with each one adapting to the unique history and styles of the cellar. If I had to choose only one to visit, it would be a tasting at Sandeman followed by a Candlelight Concert at Ferreira.

How to book Port wine cellar tours in Porto online?

It’s easy to book Port wine cellar tours in Porto online. In fact, most of the Port wine cellars require a reservation and cannot accommodate walk-ins. All you need to do is click on the appropriate link in one of the tour descriptions above or follow the link below to compare all the Port wine cellar tours in one place.

As we conclude our journey through Porto’s iconic wine cellars, let’s raise a glass to the wider world of Portuguese wines, inviting both connoisseurs and curious travelers to explore further the depth and diversity that Portugal’s wine regions have to offer.

Sandeman Cellars

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

SANDEMAN CELLARS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Porto city half-day private tour (From $269.02)
• Private Tour Porto With Departure From Lisbon (From $582.90)
• Porto Private Tour from Lisbon (From $703.06)
• Private Tour Full Day Fátima - Porto - Óbidos - from Lisbon (From $807.09)
• Porto Private Tour from Lisbon (From $735.35)
• (0.03 km) The House of Sandeman Hostel & Suites
• (0.05 km) Charm Guest House Douro
• (0.06 km) Charm GuestHouse Douro
• (0.06 km) Porta 33 Porto Rio
• (0.09 km) 296 Heritage Apartments
• (0.03 km) A Copo Vinhos & Tapas
• (0.04 km) Meet&Taste Portugal
• (0.05 km) Solar Dos Dragos Porto & Douro Wines
• (0.05 km) Beira Douro
• (0.05 km) The George Restaurant & Terrace

Sandeman Cellars

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Sandeman Cellars - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)