Quinta das Carvalhas

Quinta das Carvalhas, property of Real Companhia Velha — one of the Douro's oldest and most prestigious wine houses, founded by royal charter in 1756 — is one of the most emblematic and visually recognisable estates in the entire Alto Douro Wine Region. Its pink terraces, built in pre-phylloxera times with schist walls lime-rendered in a distinctive pink wash, are visible from several kilometres away, notably from the Douro river and viewpoints on the opposite valley side.

The Estate and Real Companhia Velha

Real Companhia Velha was founded by the Marquis of Pombal in 1756 to regulate Port Wine trade and protect Portuguese producers from English merchants — one of the most historically significant wine institutions in the world. With over 100 hectares of vineyard, including some of the oldest pre-phylloxera parcels in the Douro, Quinta das Carvalhas is the crown jewel of Real Companhia Velha's portfolio.

Wines include Vintage Port, Colheita, aged Tawny and still DOC Douro wines. The oldest parcels, with 100–150-year-old field-blend vines, produce some of the Douro's most concentrated and complex wines.

Visits, Viewpoint and Tasting

The estate visit includes a walk through the historic terraces with privileged Douro views, the winery and a guided tasting. Advance booking recommended. Find accommodation in the Douro.

FAQ

Why are the terraces of Quinta das Carvalhas pink?

The terrace walls were rendered and painted with lime and ochre/pink pigment in an 18th–19th century tradition of property identification. This made the estate instantly recognisable from the river.

What is Real Companhia Velha?

Founded in 1756 by the Marquis of Pombal, it is one of the world's oldest wine houses. It owns several Douro quintas and produces a wide range of Port Wine and still DOC Douro wines.