Burmester Reserve Tour

Burmester Reserve Tour: An Authentic Porto Wine Experience

If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation for Portugal’s most famous export, the Burmester Reserve Tour offers a compelling blend of history, craftsmanship, and delicious tastings—all within a scenic setting in Porto. With a solid 4.8-star rating from eight reviews, this tour stands out for its knowledgeable guides, authentic atmosphere, and memorable Port sampling.

What we love about this experience is how it combines a walk through history in an ancient building, the chance to see the oldest vat still in use, and the opportunity to taste two of Burmester’s most celebrated Ports—Sotto Voce and Jockey Club—paired with traditional cheese and almond cookies. Plus, the friendly guides make the whole process approachable and engaging.

A potential drawback? The tour is relatively short, clocking in around a few hours, and transportation isn’t included. If you prefer a more inclusive experience with transportation or broader tasting options, this might feel a bit limited. Still, it’s perfect for those wanting a focused, quality visit with expert insights.

This tour suits those who love wine, history buffs, or visitors eager to learn about Porto’s port wine heritage in an intimate setting. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned wine lover, this experience offers valuable insights and a taste of Porto’s famed wine tradition.

Key Points

• Authentic Setting: Visit an historic cellar next to the iconic Luiz I Bridge.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed stories and explanations.
• Iconic Ports: Taste two celebrated Ports—Sotto Voce (Ruby Reserve) and Jockey Club (Tawny Reserve).
• Traditional Pairings: Enjoy expertly paired Beira Baixa cheese and almond cookies, enhancing the tasting.
• Limited Inclusion: Only the tasting and pairings are included—transportation and other products cost extra.
• Flexible Booking: You can reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance—making planning easy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting at the Burmester Cellar located conveniently next to the Luiz I Bridge, the tour immediately immerses you in the historic charm of Porto’s port wine scene. This building isn’t just any cellar; it’s a place rich with tradition, having served as a storage space during the construction of the bridge and now as a haven for wine lovers.

The visit kicks off with an introduction from your guide, who will walk you through the history of Burmester and its significance within Porto’s wine industry. According to reviews, guides like Fabiana, Cristovao, and Samuel are praised for their friendly, professional manner and their ability to turn technical details into engaging stories. One reviewer mentioned Fabiana’s “competence and simpatia,” highlighting how guides can make or break the experience with their storytelling.

Next, you’ll explore the cellars themselves, including the oldest vat still in use—a highlight that offers a tangible connection to the traditional methods of port wine production. Seeing the ancient architecture, with its stone walls and centuries-old equipment, adds a layer of authenticity many visitors cherish. It’s not only about tasting wine but understanding the craftsmanship behind it, which guides are happy to share.

Tasting of Two Iconic Ports

The core of the experience is the tasting of two reserve Ports: the Sotto Voce (Ruby Reserve) and Jockey Club (Tawny Reserve). These selections are representative of Burmester’s craftsmanship and reputation. The Sotto Voce is described as a vibrant Ruby, perfect for those who enjoy fresh, fruity Ports. Meanwhile, the Jockey Club offers a Tawny profile, aged to develop complexity and smoothness.

Reviewers noted that the tastings are well explained, with guides providing context about the flavor profiles and the differences between Ruby and Tawny Ports. The pairing of these Ports with Beira Baixa cheese and almond cookies enhances the tasting, offering a traditional Portuguese experience. Guests appreciated that the pairings are thoughtfully selected and served with care—many mentioned that the pairings elevated the Port tasting experience.

What Makes it Special

One of the standout aspects is the location—the cellar’s proximity to the bridge and the city’s historic center makes it incredibly easy to include in a Porto itinerary. Visitors consistently remark on the stunning views and the unique setting of a historic building combined with modern wine production.

The tour’s small-group format (usually just a few people) fosters a more personal, engaging experience, allowing guests to ask questions and learn at their own pace. While transportation isn’t included, the meeting point at the cellar is straightforward, and the tour lasts enough time to enjoy the sights and tastes without feeling rushed.

Value for Money

At $28 per person, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the quality of the guides, the historic setting, and the quality of the Port tastings. The pairings alone add a layer of authenticity and local flavor, making the experience more than just a tasting. Compared to larger, less personal tours, this offers a focused, educational visit that feels intimate and genuine.

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Real Experiences from Reviewers

Guides like Cristovao and Samuel are praised for their entertaining and informative commentary, which makes the history of Burmester come alive. One reviewer noted that the explanations were detailed and never boring, which is important for those who want to understand the nuances of Portuguese Port.

Another guest, who described the tour as “fun and informative,” appreciated the charming demeanor of the guide, which made the whole experience more memorable. The small tasting selection was described as simple but well-chosen, with plenty of opportunity for questions and discussion.

Practical Details

The tour lasts roughly a few hours, making it suitable for those with limited time but wanting a rich experience. The group size is manageable, ensuring personalized attention. Children under 18 are only served juice, and alcohol consumption is limited to those of legal drinking age.

It’s important to note that pets, drones, alcohol outside the tasting, loud noise, and audio recordings are not allowed, helping maintain a respectful atmosphere. The flexible booking policy—reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation 24 hours before—adds convenience and peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious wine enthusiasts eager to understand the story behind Porto’s most famous drink. It’s also perfect for travelers who want an authentic, intimate look at a historic cellar with professional guides.

History buffs will enjoy the architectural and cultural insights, while food lovers appreciate the pairings. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a small-group, informative tour over large, commercial tastings.

While it’s not suited for wheelchair users or children under 18, it’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting a focused, high-quality Port wine experience in Porto.

FAQs About the Burmester Reserve Tour

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t provided, but the meeting point at the cellar next to Luiz I Bridge is easily accessible for most visitors.

How long does the tour last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s designed to be a few hours, including the cellar visit and tasting.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children under 18 can join, but they are served juice rather than wine, and no food pairings are offered for minors.

Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, guides speak Portuguese, Spanish, English, French, and Italian, ensuring broad accessibility.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a visit to the cellar, tasting of two reserve Ports, and pairings with Beira Baixa cheese and almond cookies.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets, drones, outside drinks, loud noise, and audio recordings are not allowed to preserve the experience’s intimacy and respect.

Can I buy bottles at the end?
Yes, many visitors find the shop offers good options for purchasing bottles to take home or ship, with no hard sales pitch.

Final Thoughts

The Burmester Reserve Tour presents a well-balanced blend of history, education, and taste, making it a worthwhile addition to any Porto visit. For around $28, you gain intimate access to a historic cellar, learn from guides praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, and enjoy high-quality Port paired with traditional snacks.

It’s especially suitable for those who want a focused experience without the distractions of larger groups or overly commercialized tastings. The setting—next to the Luiz I Bridge—provides a picturesque backdrop that enhances the understanding of Porto’s port wine heritage.

While not inclusive of transport or extensive tastings, the tour’s quality, authenticity, and friendly guides make it a strong choice for travelers seeking a genuine Port experience. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned connoisseur, it offers a memorable taste of Portugal’s iconic wine culture—something you’ll likely carry home in both your glass and your memory.

You can check availability for your dates here: