I’ve arrived in the breathtaking Douro Valley where centuries of winemaking tradition meet terraced vineyards and unforgettable landscapes. From river to ridge, this UNESCO World Heritage region tells the story of Portugal in every glass.
I’m excited to explore its vineyards, meet its winemakers, and experience its remarkable wines and culture.
Stay tuned for more stories from one of the most captivating wine regions in the world!
I am honoured to be recognized by LocalWineEvents.com as one of the Influential Wine Voices, alongside esteemed colleagues from around the world.
This recognition highlights individuals who are shaping the future of wine through innovation, education, and a shared passion for viticulture, oenology, and global wine tourism.
I remain committed to fostering meaningful dialogue, championing wine culture, and elevating the global conversation around wine through journalism and digital storytelling.
Link to site: https://www.localwineevents.com/influential-wine-voices/liz-palmer
Heading northwest to the Vinho Verde region today. This regions spans from the Atlantic coast to the mountainous interior and iis shaped by a cool, wet climate and granitic soils that give rise to wines with distinct freshness and character.
Geography and Sub-Regions
Vinho Verde lies within the broader Minho region and borders the Douro Valley and Trás-os-Montes to the East, and the Dão & Lafões region to the South. The region is segmented into nine sub-regions, each contributing its own microclimatic influence and grape-growing identity:
· Monção and Melgaço
· Lima
· Basto
· Cávado
· Ave
· Amarante
· Baião
· Sousa
· Paiva
From coastal vineyards to inland hills, these areas showcase incredible diversity in soil, elevation, and style.
Wine Styles: From Classic to Cutting-Edge
Vinho Verde is traditionally celebrated for its crisp, low-alcohol white wines, often lightly effervescent and youthful in spirit. These wines, especially those made from Alvarinho, Loureiro, and Arinto are the perfect companions for fresh seafood.
Yet today’s Vinho Verde is far from one-dimensional. Winemakers are pushing boundaries, crafting orange wines, pet-nat sparklers, and oak-aged whites that rival more established categories. This evolution reflects the region’s balance of deep-rooted heritage and dynamic innovation.
What’s in a Name? “Vinho Verde” translates to “green wine,” but the term doesn’t refer to the color, instead, it captures the region’s essence: youthful, vibrant, and fresh. It’s a style that’s alive with acidity and minerality, echoing the region’s verdant landscape and Atlantic breezes.
Last night what a magical dinner at Aroma, the signature restaurant located in the five-star Pestana Douro Riverside.
This is a stunning riverside property blending neo-historic architecture with modern elegance was once home to a perfume, candle, and soap factory, famously known as the Floral Factory.
From the outside, the structure maintains its original brick façade, tall arched windows, and chimney towers that nod to its 19th-century factory roots. Its riverside location offers breathtaking views over the Douro, especially as we watch the sun set.
Inside there is a harmonious blend of industrial elegance and contemporary comfort such as exposed beams, iron columns, and high ceilings which are all complemented by warm wood, soft lighting, and a muted palette that evokes the essence of its past life. It’s a true architectural gem where history meets hospitality.
It was an unforgettable evening of fine dining, wine and heritage by the Douro! Fresh local seafood grilled on the terrace with stunning river views and local wines!
Just arrived at the World of Wine (WOW) Cultural District in Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto!
This vibrant cultural hub features seven unique museums that celebrate the best of Portuguese heritage, wine, cork, chocolate, and more:
The Wine Experience
Where you can dive into the history and diversity of Portuguese wine.
Planet Cork
Where you can discover the wonders of Portugal’s cork industry.
Porto Region Across the Ages
This is where you can travel through time with Porto’s rich cultural evolution.
The Bridge Collection
**My Favorite
Where you can explore 2,000+ drinking vessels and social rituals across civilizations.
Pink Palace
This is a fun, immersive journey into the world of rosé.
The Chocolate Story
From bean to bar, here you can experience the magic of chocolate.
The Atkinson Museum
Where you can delve into the legacy of the Atkinson brand and its ties to Porto.
WOW also includes 12 restaurants and bars, boutique shops, wine school, and event spaces, all with breathtaking views over Porto.
Can’t wait to start exploring!
Website for further details: https://www.wow.pt/
![Enroute to the Vinho Verde Region [Portugal]](https://liz-palmer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Home-Bake-Photo-1-1200x1697.png)
