Quinta da Pacheca: tradition and avant-garde on the banks of the Douro River
Quinta da Pacheca, situated in the heart of the Demarcated Douro Region, is one of the most prestigious and recognised estates, whose vinicultural origins date back to the 16th century. With a rich history and a legacy of dedication to the Douro’s terroir, this estate has distinguished itself through its commitment to quality and innovation.
The journey of Quinta da Pacheca began with vineyards dating back to 1551, initially associated with the monasteries of Salzedas and San João de Tarouca.
Through the centuries, it has evolved under the management of imposing figures, such as Da. Mariana Pacheco Pereira, and has remained at the forefront of viticulture and oenology in the region. In 2012, a new chapter began with the acquisition of the estate by the dynamic families of Paulo Pereira and Maria do Céu Gonçalves, who reinforced the focus on wine excellence and revitalised wine tourism.
With approximately 75 hectares of its own vineyards, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Quinta da Pacheca takes pride in being a pioneer in the production and bottling of DOC Douro wines under its own brand, a tradition that began in 1977. This commitment to quality has led Quinta da Pacheca to be one of the most visited estates in the Douro, receiving numerous wine tourism awards and recognition for its exceptional wines.
The wine tourism offering of Quinta da Pacheca
Quinta da Pacheca offers an unparalleled wine tourism experience that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich vinicultural history and the natural beauty of the Douro. Since the start of its wine tourism project in 1995, the estate has opened its doors to guided tours, allowing a close-up discovery of its vitivinicultural operations and the history that surrounds the property.
The Wine House Hotel Quinta da Pacheca, opened in 2009, complements this offer, providing an immersive stay amongst vineyards, which translates into a deeper connection with the terroir and the vinicultural tradition of the region.
The wine tourism experiences at Quinta da Pacheca are designed to cater to wine enthusiasts of all levels, from guided tours of the cellar and wine tastings, to gastronomic experiences that pair the estate’s wines with the exquisite local cuisine.
These activities not only highlight the quality of Pacheca’s wines, but also emphasise the importance of the land and respect for the environment in their production. By participating in these experiences, visitors not only learn about the winemaking process but also take away a piece of the history and culture of the Douro.
Other attractions at Quinta da Pacheca
Beyond wine tourism, Quinta da Pacheca is dedicated to the preservation of Portuguese wine culture and tradition through education and community engagement. This approach is manifested in the organisation of events and workshops that promote not just wine, but also the rich gastronomic heritage of the region. By engaging visitors in activities such as the grape harvest, Quinta da Pacheca fosters a deeper appreciation for the art of viticulture and the importance of each step in the wine creation process.
Furthermore, Quinta da Pacheca’s commitment to excellence extends to its participation in FINE #WineTourism Marketplace, where it will present its wine tourism offering to an international audience.
This participation underscores Quinta da Pacheca’s relevance in the global wine tourism landscape and its constant search for innovation and quality. The fair is an opportunity for attendees to discover up close the uniqueness of Quinta da Pacheca’s wine tourism offering, consolidating it as an unmissable destination for wine and Portuguese culture enthusiasts.