Learn about how mountainous terrain and a cool climate have helped establish the Dao Wine Region as one of the best in Portugal. Wines produced here are protected by Controlled Denomination of Origin (DOC) status and will tantalise your palate with complex flavours and aromas. Narrow roads wind through the foothills and take you past terraced vineyards and towering pine and eucalyptus forests.
Things to do in Dao Wine Region
Everywhere you go, you’ll see the Serra da Estrela, Serra da Nave and Serra do Caramulo mountains rising in the distance. The soaring granite peaks protect the Dao Wine Region from blustery Atlantic breezes. Hot summers and cold winters also contribute to the bright and beautifully structured wine produced in the Dao DOC.
Base yourself in one of the charming towns and villages that dot the Dao Wine Region. Many are filled with beautiful historic houses and churches built with locally quarried granite. Make Viseu your launchpad if you prefer a livelier scene. The city is anchored by a magnificent twin-towered cathedral and packed with cafes, restaurants and wine bars.
Guided tasting tours are a great way to learn more about the Dao Wine Region. Many of the vineyards grow Touriga Nacional, the famous “noble” grape varietal used to produce port wine. You’ll see lots of Tinta Roriz, a variety used to make full-bodied, velvety wines. Jaen is another popular grape and creates wines with fruity aromas of strawberry, raspberry, cherry and pomegranate.
Whites are made with Encruzado, a Portuguese grape unique to the Dao Wine Region. It thrives on the granite hillsides and creates rich, full-bodied wines with hints of citrus, stone fruit and melon. Some whites are aged in barrels to enhance the flavour and texture.
Getting around Dao Wine Region
Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the Dao Wine Region at your own pace. Guided tours depart from Viseu and are an easy way to visit the Dao Wine Region. Viseu is a 1.5-hour drive from Porto and three hours from Lisbon.