Category: Wines of Portugal

AliveTaste’25 Elevates Portugal’s Wine + Gastronomy at Pestana Palácio do Freixo

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 mix of luminaries: international wine critics, Michelin-starred chefs, top sommeliers, and luxury travel insiders. From Canada to Paris to São Paulo to South Korea, the guest list read like a passport through the world’s wine capitals. Both Portuguese wines and gastronomy took center stage, joined by leading producers from across the country, bringing the global wine world together in one extraordinary setting.

AliveTaste is more than a celebration of fine wine; it is a tribute to the terroir, the people, and the compelling stories that are shaping Portugal’s growing influence in gastronomy and luxury wine tourism. In 2025, the event once again raised the bar, elevating the experience to new heights.

“AliveTaste’25 was nothing short of a sensory revelation,” Liz Palmer

Here is their website for further details: https://alivetaste.com/

Exploring the Douro!! Portugal’s Most Storied Wine Region

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!

Aroma, the signature restaurant located in the five-star Pestana Douro Riverside

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!
 

World of Wine (WOW) Cultural District in Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto

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/

AliveTaste’25 – Porto, Portugal

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 the annual event brings celebration of flavors and aromas with some of Portugal’s best wine producers and renowned chefs. This event will be a true celebration of Portuguese gastronomy and wine excellence and I’m thrilled to participate!

Stay tuned for highlights, tastings, and behind-the-scenes moments!

For further information about the event: https://alivetaste.com/

Liz Palmer