The Rota dos Vinhos do Dão stands as an emblem of wine tourism in Portugal, offering wine lovers a deep immersion into the rich winemaking tradition of the Dão region. Their participation in the upcoming edition of one of the most important wine tourism fairs highlights their commitment to promoting and sharing the authenticity of their wines and wine tourism experiences with a broader audience.

The legacy of Dão

Officially established in 1995, the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão was inaugurated in 1998 with the aim of integrating and promoting the various wineries and producers of the region. This initiative was born from a joint effort between the Secretary of State for Tourism, the Dão Regional Wine Commission, and other local entities, seeking to position wine tourism as a fundamental pillar in the regional economy and culture.

The Dão region, located in the north-central part of Portugal, in the province of Beira Alta, is recognised for its mountainous landscape protected by ranges such as Serra da Estrela, Caramulo, Nave, and Buçaco. This unique geography, combined with granite soils and a temperate climate, has allowed the cultivation of vineyards that have produced distinctive wines for over a century.

Image: CVR Dao

Memorable routes and experiences

The Rota dos Vinhos do Dão comprises five certified itineraries that cover the 16 municipalities of the region, from Arganil to Aguiar da Beira. Each route offers a combination of diverse landscapes, manor houses, traditional and modern wineries, historic villages, and crystal-clear rivers. The itineraries are:

• Route 1: Terras de Viseu, Silgueiros, and Senhorim.
• Route 2: Terras de Azurara and Castendo.
• Route 3: Terras de Besteiros.
• Route 4: Terras de Alva.
• Route 5: Terras de Serra da Estrela.

Each itinerary is designed to offer visitors a unique experience, allowing them to explore vineyards hidden among pine forests and stone walls, and enjoy local hospitality at various wineries and rural houses.

The Welcome Centre of the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão, located in the historic Solar do Vinho do Dão in Viseu, serves as an ideal starting point for wine tourists. This centre offers tastings of wines from different producers affiliated with the route, wine sales at cellar prices, and informational material for planning visits to the wineries. Additionally, visitors can watch promotional videos that enrich their understanding of the region and its wines.

For those interested in more immersive experiences, the region offers tours that include visits to some of the oldest and most emblematic wineries, walks through centuries-old vineyards, and wine tastings paired with local cuisine, such as vitela à Dão Lafões or oven-roasted kid.

Image: CVR Dao

Constant evolution

The Rota dos Vinhos do Dão has evolved since its creation, consolidating in 2015 with the development of a study for its structuring and management, the creation of a new visual identity, and the inauguration of the Welcome Centre. These initiatives reflect a constant commitment to innovation and improving the wine tourism experience, ensuring that visitors receive quality attention and access to updated information.

Moreover, the Dão region is known for producing high-quality wines, the result of winemaking practices that combine traditional techniques with modern advancements. The main grape varieties include Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Jaen, Alfrocheiro Preto, and Encruzado, which give the wines unique characteristics recognised internationally.

Experience Dão in Valladolid

The participation of the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão in the Valladolid Fair represents an exceptional opportunity for industry professionals and wine lovers to discover the richness and diversity of this Portuguese region. All attendees are invited to visit their stand, where they can obtain detailed information about the wine tourism routes, taste a selection of representative wines, and plan future visits to the wineries and landscapes of Dão. For more information and visit planning, it is recommended to access their official website.

Exploring the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão is to delve into an experience that combines history, culture, and a passion for wine, making this region an essential destination for any wine tourism enthusiast.