The Porto and Northern Portugal region is once again set to shine at FINE #WineTourism Marketplace, which will take place on March 5-6, 2025. With a rich winemaking tradition and a diverse wine tourism offering, this region stands out as an essential destination for wine and culture enthusiasts.

A millennia-old winemaking legacy

The winemaking history of northern Portugal dates back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that wine production in the Douro Valley dates at least to the 3rd and 4th centuries, with remains of wine presses and vessels scattered throughout the region.

During the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, it is known that the Romans cultivated vines and produced wine on the steep slopes of the Douro River. However, it was in the second half of the 17th century that the term port wine began to be used, coinciding with a significant expansion of viticulture in the Douro and a rapid increase in wine exports.

Image: Turismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal

In 1756, under the leadership of the Marquis of Pombal, the Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro, also known as Real Companhia Velha, was established.

This institution aimed to regulate wine production and trade in the region, creating the world’s first demarcated wine region. Known as the Pombaline Demarcation of the Douro Region, this designation laid the foundation for protecting and promoting Douro and port wines.

A diverse and enriching wine tourism experience

The Porto and Northern Portugal region offers a wide range of wine tourism experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of wine.

The Rota dos Vinhos e do Enoturismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal is a collaborative project developed alongside various organizations, including the Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e Porto and the Viticulture Commission of the Vinho Verde Region.

This initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism development by leveraging the region’s wine culture and viticultural heritage, aligning it with Porto and Northern Portugal’s global reputation as a premier tourist destination.

Visitors can explore four distinct terroirs in a single trip, discovering the diversity and richness of the Porto, Douro, Minho, and Trás-os-Montes subregions. Each area offers unique experiences, from visiting centuries-old wineries to exploring vineyards across breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, the region boasts high-quality tourism infrastructure, including traditional estate accommodations in historic quintas and restaurants that showcase the best of local gastronomy.

Image: Turismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal

Participation in FINE #WineTourism Marketplace 2025

The presence of Porto and Northern Portugal at FINE #WineTourism Marketplace 2025 represents a unique opportunity for industry professionals to discover the region’s wine tourism offerings firsthand.

During the event, a wide range of experiences will be presented, including wine tastings, food pairings, outdoor activities, and cultural visits. This participation reinforces the region’s commitment to sustainable wine tourism development and the promotion of its cultural and winemaking heritage.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore everything Porto and Northern Portugal have to offer in wine tourism during FINE #WineTourism Marketplace 2025.