Porto ‘Best of the Best’ Port Tasting and Artisan Chocolates

Exploring the world of Port wine doesn’t have to mean endless cellar visits or racing across the city. Instead, this ‘Best of the Best’ Port Tasting offers a thoughtfully curated experience right in Porto’s old town, blending top vintages with artisan chocolates in a charming setting. We’ve looked into this tour to see if it truly delivers on its promises, and here’s what you can expect.

What makes this experience a good choice? First, it brings multiple top Port houses together in one place, saving you precious time. Second, the pairing with local artisan chocolates elevates the tasting, adding a delightful sensory dimension. Lastly, the relaxed atmosphere in the orangerie or garden makes for a fun, educational, and Instagram-worthy session.

A potential drawback? Some guests have found the experience a bit short, with reviews mentioning it lasting around 30 minutes instead of the full hour. If you’re a serious Port enthusiast, you might want to plan additional tastings or cellar visits. This tour suits those seeking a convenient, atmospheric introduction to Port wine—ideal for first-timers or anyone looking for a stylish, informative break from sightseeing.

Key Points

• Convenience: All top Port vintages sampled under one roof without multiple cellar visits.
• Educational: Learn about Port’s history, provenance, and importance to Porto’s culture.
• Tasting Variety: Sample four styles—White, Ruby, Tawny, LBV—and compare flavors side by side.
• Pairings: Artisan chocolates crafted by local producers complement each Port, enhancing tasting notes.
• Flexible Locations: Held in the beautiful Orangerie of Boutique Hotel Canto De Luz or its sunlit garden.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable staff, with reviews highlighting friendly service and insightful explanations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off at Boutique Maison Canto De Luz in Porto’s historic old town, along the iconic cobbled Rua do Almada. Here, you’ll step into a beautifully maintained orangerie or gather in the sunlit garden, where the ambiance alone transports you into the heart of Porto’s wine culture.

Sampling Top Vintages: You’ll taste four premium Port styles—White, Ruby, Tawny, and LBV—sourced from renowned producers like Sandeman, Grahams, Taylors, and Ferreira. This selection offers a well-rounded view of Port’s diversity. One reviewer appreciated that these vintages are brought together under one roof, saving the hassle of visiting multiple cellars or wine lodges.

Tasting and Pairings: Each Port is served in a 40ml glass, enough to savor the flavors without feeling overwhelmed. The tasting involves thoughtful pairings, such as Sandeman Fine White Port with Brie cheese and dried apricot, or Grahams Mature Reserve Tawny with Equador Truffles and raspberry ganache. These combinations are designed to bring out the unique qualities of each wine, making the experience both educational and delicious.

Learning Opportunities: Your guide or host will share insights into each Port’s history, provenance, and what makes each style distinctive. While some reviews mention a slightly rushed feeling—“instead of an hour, only 30 minutes”—others note the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who do their best to make the session engaging.

Additional Features: Depending on the season and availability, the experience might include commentary on how Port’s flavors change with the seasons or vintage variations, offering a broader understanding of this iconic wine.

The Setting and Atmosphere

The venue itself adds to the experience. The elegant orangerie, with its classic decor and calming atmosphere, creates an ideal backdrop for tasting. If the weather permits, some sessions are held in the garden, where natural sunlight and fresh air complement the sensory experience.

Guests have praised the stunning views and the serene environment that encourages relaxed conversation and discovery. The space is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for different needs.

The Quality and Value of the Tasting

The inclusion of four premium Port vintages and artisanal chocolates makes this experience a good value, especially considering it’s centrally located. For the price, you get a curated selection of top wines, expert guidance, and the chance to compare styles side by side—something that might cost significantly more if visiting individual cellars.

Some reviews highlight the friendly service and the insightful explanations offered by staff. The chocolates, crafted locally, are an added bonus that elevates the tasting, making it memorable for both wine lovers and those new to Port.

However, it’s worth noting that the tasting duration may be brief—around 30 minutes—according to some guests. While this is perfect for a quick introduction or afternoon break, serious enthusiasts might consider supplementing with additional tastings or cellar visits.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 1 hour (check availability for specific times)
• Location: Boutique Maison Canto De Luz, Porto
• Languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Price: Includes four tastings (40ml each) and chocolates; optional upgrades available
• Transport: Not included; optional transportation can be arranged at an extra cost
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This tasting is perfect for first-time visitors eager to sample top Port styles without the hassle of multiple cellar visits. It also suits those with limited time in Porto but who want a high-quality, immersive experience. The pairing with chocolates adds a layer of indulgence, making it ideal for couples or groups celebrating a special occasion.

If you’re a seasoned Port connoisseur, you might find this experience somewhat brief but still worthwhile for the friendly atmosphere and expert guidance. The relaxed setting makes it more of a casual introduction rather than an in-depth exploration—great for gaining a quick appreciation of Porto’s most celebrated wine.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-curated, accessible introduction to Port wines, neatly packaged in a charming setting with friendly hosts. The opportunity to taste four prestigious Port styles side by side, paired with artisan chocolates, provides excellent value for anyone wanting to learn and indulge without visiting multiple cellars.

The intimate atmosphere, combined with quality wines and expert commentary, makes it an enjoyable activity for those curious about Portugal’s iconic beverage. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, informative, and flavorful experience—whether you’re new to Port or just looking for a convenient way to sample Porto’s best.

Keep in mind the brief duration if you’re after a comprehensive, in-depth wine journey. But for a quick, delightful overview, this tasting hits the spot.

FAQ

How long is the tasting?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour, but some reviews mention it may feel shorter—around 30 minutes—so plan accordingly if you want more extensive tasting options.

Where does the tour take place?
It starts at the Boutique Maison Canto De Luz in Porto’s old town, either in the beautiful orangerie or in the sunlit garden, depending on the weather and availability.

Are the Port and chocolates included in the price?
Yes, you’ll sample four premium Port styles, each in 40ml glasses, paired with artisan chocolates crafted by local producers.

Is there an option to upgrade the experience?
Yes, you can add a premium 20-year-old Quinta do Vallado tawny Port to your tasting at an extra cost. Transportation to and from the venue is optional and available at additional charges.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
Chocolate pairings may contain various ingredients; it’s recommended to inform the staff about allergies or dietary restrictions beforehand.

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women.

What languages are available?
Guides and staff communicate in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

To sum it up, this ‘Best of the Best’ Port Tasting and Artisan Chocolates experience offers a practical, charming, and tasty way to explore Porto’s iconic wines. It’s ideal for visitors seeking a relaxed, educational, and delicious activity that showcases Portugal’s storied Port heritage. Whether you’re a casual wine lover or just looking for a memorable afternoon, this tour delivers on both flavor and atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: