An exclusive interview by Liz Palmer with Francisco Viana Brito, General Manager Northern Portugal has long lured travellers with its riverside romance, cobbled streets, and legendary port wine. But now, a new chapter in luxury hospitality is unfolding along the banks of the Douro. At the heart of it sits Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia, a […]
In a momentous acknowledgment of her exceptional contributions to viticulture and French cultural heritage, Carol Duval-Leroy, President of Maison Duval-Leroy, has been named Officer of the Legion of Honour, one of France’s highest civilian accolades. This prestigious distinction not only honours her unwavering dedication to the Champagne region but also recognizes over three decades of
I’ve come across some compelling insights from the SVB 2025 DtC Wine Report that shed light on evolving strategies in the tasting room experience. According to the report, wineries were asked under what circumstances they would waive tasting fees. Predictably, scenarios such as making a purchase or joining a wine club were frequently cited, widely
Rethinking the Tasting Room Experience: Does Waiving Fees Drive More Visitors? Read More »
Lisbon’s vibrant energy flows through its grand avenues, pastel façades, and historic waterfront, yet one of its most compelling experiences lies quietly in a corner of the city’s most iconic square. Tucked into the western wing of Praça do Comércio, also known as Terreiro do Paço, the Wines of Portugal Tasting Room, operated by ViniPortugal,
Exploring the “Wines of Portugal” Tasting Room in Lisbon’s Terreiro do Paço Read More »
In the heart of Portugal’s storied wine country, where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary elegance, this year’s AliveTaste’25 was nothing short of a sensory revelation. Held at the magnificent Portuguese Baroque Pestana Palácio do Freixo – DOURO. The event unfolded as a harmonious symphony of taste, culture, and refined hospitality. The event was attended by an eclectic
AliveTaste’25 Elevates Portugal’s Wine + Gastronomy at Pestana Palácio do Freixo Read More »
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
Aroma, the signature restaurant located in the five-star Pestana Douro Riverside Read More »
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
World of Wine (WOW) Cultural District in Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto Read More »
I’m heading to Porto today participate in the 9th Edition of @Alivetaste_com in Portugal! I’ll be exploring the wine regions of Vinho Verde and Douro; visiting top wine producers, dining at some of Portugal’s most celebrated restaurants, and luxury hotels. The journey culminates at the enchanting gardens of the Palácio do Freixo in Porto, where
AliveTaste’25 – Porto, Portugal Read More »
During my recent visit to Dievole Wine Resort, I conducted an in-depth exploration of the estate’s integrated wine tourism program, encompassing guided vineyard tours, curated gastronomic experiences, and a structured tasting of the estate’s wine portfolio. Here are my findings. The Dievole Wine Resort exemplifies an exceptional model of integrated wine tourism, where viticulture, gastronomy,
Dievole Wine Resort: A Benchmark in Tuscan Wine Tourism Excellence Read More »
Visit Temecula Valley released its 2024 Economic Impact of Travel report this week, revealing substantial growth in tourism-related activity for the region. According to data compiled by Dean Runyan Associates, the region welcomed a record-setting 3.4 million visitors, a 2.1% increase over 2023 and an 8.7% increase from pre-pandemic 2019 levels. The report underscores the
Copyright © 2027 Liz Palmer Media Group Inc.
