Port and Portugal are one and the same. It is impossible to imagine where the country would be without it. This rich aperitif is entwined within the cultural landscape, as prominent to the Douro as red wine is to Bordeaux and beer is to Bavaria.
If you’re partial to a measure, then you will be happy to hear that exploring its origins in Porto and throughout the Douro Valley is one of the great joys of our luxury Douro River cruises. From Porto to Vega de Terrón, the legacy of port runs deep throughout northern Portugal, and you can trace its journey from the fertile slopes and historic quintas of the patchwork countryside to the cavernous subterranean wine cellars of Porto, where Port has been stored, aged and traded for centuries.
You’ll see bacalhau (cod) on plenty of menus across Portugal, and one of the most popular ways to enjoy it in the Douro Valley is in bacalhau à bras – a cod-based hash containing eggs, fried potatoes and black olives. Served in traditional Portuguese taverns from Porto to Pinhão, this classic peasant dish is as authentic as it gets, and absolutely delicious washed down with a white Port and tonic water cocktail.
Try it: As local and authentic as it gets, Papas Zaide has been delighting travellers with its alheira sausage, charcuterie and Port selection for decades.
Iberia has long been heralded for its excellent charcuterie, and the Douro Valley is no exception. One of the delicacies of the region is alheira sausage, which comprises a blend of smoked poultry and game, believed to have been invented by Portuguese Jews during the time of the inquisition. For your first taste of this beloved regional delicacy, you need an authentic option – so opt for a vintage-style Port that has been aged for at least eight years.
Try it: As local and authentic as it gets, Papas Zaide has been delighting travellers with its alheira sausage, charcuterie and Port selection for decades.
For a classic taste of Portugal, you must try polvo – octopus. With the Atlantic Ocean on its doorstep, seafood is taken seriously in the country, and one of the locals’ favourite fish dishes is grilled octopus served with salad or in a stew. You’ll find it in many restaurants throughout Porto, and we’d recommend washing it down with a local ruby Port for that classic taste of the city.
Try it: Papavinhos is considered among Porto’s best seafood restaurants, offering a contemporary take on some of the region’s best-loved dishes – accompanied by a comprehensive wine list.