Cockburn’s Port Lodge – A Journey Through Time and Flavor

My husband and I enjoy a glass of port now and then, but we had never visited a port house or done a port tasting and guided tour in Portugal. We decided it was time to remedy that. If you're a wine enthusiast (or even if you're not), Cockburn's Port Lodge is a must-visit.

Established in 1815, this historic port house (pronounced “co-burn”) is home to one of the largest cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, where thousands of barrels of aging port line the walls.

Barrels of aging Port. Photos by Paul Wilcox.

A guided tour here (reservations required) is more than just a tasting—it's an immersive dive into the craftsmanship behind port wine. Visitors can learn about the traditional foot-treading method, explore the cooperage where barrels are still handmade and repaired, and, of course, sample a range of exceptional ports along with cheeses, cured meats and chocolate pairings.

The cooperage at Cockburn's. Photos by Paul Wilcox.

Port tasting and food pairing. Photos by Paul Wilcox.

If you're comfortable walking, you can reach Cockburn's on foot, but it is an uphill climb from the riverfront on the Vila Nova de Gaia side. Public buses pick up and drop off at the corner of the building and you can always take a taxi or an Uber if you don't want to walk.

Visits including a tasting last approximately 1.5 hours. You can make reservations in advance online. Rua Serpa Pinto 346, 4400-307 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal.

More information: Cockburn's Port Lodge.