Churchill’s, founded in 1981 by Johnny Graham, is the last independent British port house in the historic Douro Valley region of Portugal. Since its creation, it has been synonymous with quality and distinction, combining traditional methods with an innovative vision of wine tourism. Its participation in FINE #WineTourism Marketplace underscores its commitment to offering unique wine tourism experiences that connect tradition, luxury, and dreamlike landscapes.

Passion for Port

Johnny Graham, a member of a family with six generations of experience in the sector, founded Churchill’s with a clear mission: to create Port wines and still wines that reflect the authenticity of the Douro terroir but with a distinctive approach. His vision translates into elegant and balanced Ports, recognised for their freshness compared to more robust and traditional styles.

The winery owns vineyards in the prestigious Cima Corgo sub-region, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for producing long-lived and highly concentrated wines.

Image: Churchill´s

An exclusive and personalised wine tourism offering

Churchill’s has become a benchmark in wine tourism thanks to its personalised and high-quality experiences, both at its Lodge in Vila Nova de Gaia and its Quinta da Gricha vineyard. These activities aim to immerse visitors in the art of Port wine production and its connection with Portuguese culture.

Highlighted experiences at the Lodge:

• Tawny Blending Session: A unique opportunity to become a winemaker for a day. In the Tawny ageing cellar, visitors learn from the cellar masters the process of blending and ageing Ports, including creating their own personalised blend to take home.
• Johnny’s Private Cellar: An exclusive tasting with access to Johnny Graham’s private cellar, where six exceptional Ports are sampled, including some of the rarest and most exclusive Vintages.

Experiences at Quinta da Gricha:

• A day at Quinta da Gricha: Includes a Portuguese “petiscos” lunch, visits to the estate, a blind tasting of Port and still wines, and time to relax by the pool or walk through the vineyards.
• Harvest Experience: During the harvest season, visitors can participate in grape picking, traditional stomping in granite lagares, and enjoy a traditional Douro lunch. This activity concludes with the delivery of an exclusive harvest kit.

Internationally recognised

Churchill’s has made wine tourism an extension of its philosophy of excellence. In 2012, it opened its Lodge to the public in Vila Nova de Gaia, offering private tours in several languages and immersive experiences. In 2017, Quinta da Gricha also opened its doors, combining boutique accommodation with wine tourism activities. Its Gricha Vineyard House hotel, with only four luxury rooms in a restored 19th-century country house, has been recognised as “Best Accommodation” by Great Wine Capitals.

Another distinctive aspect is Bar 1982, a casual and modern space located in the garden of the Lodge. Here, visitors can enjoy wines by the glass and Port-inspired cocktails while relaxing in a green oasis in the heart of Gaia. From May to October, the bar hosts weekly events called Churchill’s Lodge Pops, which combine live music and innovative gastronomic offerings.

Image: Churchill´s

A future based on tradition and sustainability

Churchill’s has implemented sustainable practices in its vineyards, such as organic soil management and reducing chemical interventions, to preserve the Douro’s natural wealth. This commitment to the environment is also reflected in its winemaking techniques, which seek to enhance the authentic characteristics of the grapes.

Churchill’s wines have been awarded numerous international prizes, standing out for their balance, structure, and ageing potential. Each bottle tells a story of dedication and respect for the winemaking tradition.

At FINE #WineTourism Marketplace, Churchill’s will offer visitors the opportunity to learn in detail about this unique fusion of innovation and tradition. Attendees are invited to visit Churchill’s stand at the fair or to obtain more information on their official website.