Porto: Cellar Tour, Dinner & Fado Show at Fonseca

Set out on a journey through Fonseca’s renowned Port wine cellars, where knowledgeable guides unveil the secrets of winemaking. Savor the crisp, floral notes of Sirocco dry white Port before indulging in a traditional Portuguese three-course dinner, complete with local white and red wines. Cap off the experience with an intimate Fado music performance, enjoying the emotive and melancholic melodies that capture the essence of Portuguese culture. This small-group, limited-participation tour offers an exclusive and authentic experience tailored to your needs. Uncover the rich history and captivating traditions that make Porto a truly remarkable destination.

Key Points

• Explore the 200-year-old Port wine cellars of Fonseca and learn about the winemaking process from knowledgeable guides.
• Savor Fonseca’s iconic dry white Port, Sirocco, and experience the versatility of Douro Valley wines.
• Indulge in a traditional 3-course Portuguese dinner featuring authentic dishes like Caldo Verde and Bacalhau.
• Enjoy the captivating music of Fado, a deeply emotional and soulful Portuguese cultural performance.
• Enjoy a personalized and intimate experience with a small group of up to 10 participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Fonseca Port Wine Cellars Tour

The guided tour of Fonseca’s 200-year-old Port wine cellars transports visitors through the rich history and traditions of this renowned Port house.

Guests will explore the maze of aging warehouses, where thousands of oak casks store the complex, ruby-hued Port wines.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into the unique winemaking process, from grape harvest to cask maturation.

Visitors can admire the centuries-old architecture and imagine the generations of vintners who’ve tended to these cellars.

The tour culminates with a tasting of Fonseca’s iconic dry white Port, Sirocco, allowing guests to savor the fruits of this historic winery’s labor.

Sirocco Dry White Port Tasting

Fonseca’s Sirocco dry white Port wine offers a unique tasting experience, with its crisp acidity, delicate floral notes, and subtle citrus undertones. This iconic Port is a true reflection of Fonseca’s winemaking expertise and the region’s rich terroir.

Crafted from a selection of traditional Port grape varietals, the Sirocco showcases the versatility of the Douro Valley.

The wine’s refreshing profile makes it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of cuisines, from seafood to light salads.

Sipping the Sirocco allows visitors to savor the history and tradition of Port wine production, as they explore the Fonseca cellars.

The tasting experience provides a glimpse into the complexity and nuance of this distinctive Portuguese beverage.

Discovering the Sirocco is a must-do for any wine enthusiast visiting the Fonseca Port Wine Cellars.

Traditional Portuguese 3-Course Dinner

A 3-course traditional Portuguese dinner awaits visitors, featuring a delightful array of local specialties that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.

The meal begins with a Couvert – a selection of artisanal breads and olives.

This is followed by the iconic Caldo Verde, a comforting potato and collard green soup.

The main course spotlights the renowned Bacalhau, or salted cod fish, served with potatoes and vegetables.

For dessert, guests indulge in the creamy delight of Leite Creme.

Throughout the dining experience, guests will savor Portuguese white and red wines that perfectly complement the flavors of each course.

This authentic Portuguese dinner immerses visitors in the country’s vibrant gastronomic traditions.

Couvert, Caldo Verde, and Bacalhau

Savoring the couvert’s artisanal breads and olives sets the stage for the subsequent Caldo Verde, a comforting potato and collard green soup that warms the palate.

Followed by the renowned Bacalhau, or salted cod fish, served with potatoes and vegetables, this authentic Portuguese meal showcases the region’s rich culinary traditions.

The carefully curated dishes highlight:

• The earthy, aromatic flavors of the Caldo Verde
• The flaky texture and salty bite of the Bacalhau
• The interplay of textures in the potato and vegetable accompaniments
• The artisanal quality of the breads and olives in the couvert
• The overall harmony of traditional Portuguese flavors and ingredients.

More Great Tours Nearby

Portuguese White and Red Wine

The Portuguese white and red wines served during the traditional 3-course dinner complement the various flavors of the meal. Their robust, full-bodied notes harmonize with the earthiness of the Caldo Verde, the saltiness of the Bacalhau, and the overall richness of the Portuguese cuisine.

The white wine, likely a crisp, dry Vinho Verde, provides a refreshing contrast to the heartier dishes, while the red wine, possibly a bold Douro or Alentejo varietal, enhances the more robust flavors.

Together, these wines offer a delightful pairing that allows diners to fully experience the depth and complexity of traditional Portuguese gastronomy. The wine selection is carefully curated to complement the authentic flavors of this immersive dining experience.

Intimate Fado Music Performance

During the meal, guests are treated to an intimate Fado music performance, one of the greatest symbols of Portuguese culture. Fado, a mournful yet soulful genre rooted in the lives of the working class, captivates diners with its emotive lyrics and hauntingly beautiful melodies. The dimly lit, cozy setting lends an air of authenticity, allowing guests to fully enjoy this quintessential Portuguese experience.

The Fado performance features:

• A lone Fadista (Fado singer) accompanied by the traditional 12-string Portuguese guitar
• Deeply personal and reflective lyrics that evoke themes of saudade, a uniquely Portuguese concept of nostalgic longing
• Masterful guitar work that provides a melancholic yet captivating backdrop
• An opportunity to witness the passion and emotion that are the hallmarks of Fado
• A truly immersive cultural experience that leaves a lasting impression on guests.

Small Group, Limited Participation

With a small group size limited to just 10 participants, the Fonseca cellar tour and Fado experience offers an intimate and exclusive glimpse into Portugal’s rich cultural heritage. This intimate setting allows guests to fully enjoy the flavors, sights, and sounds of this quintessential Portuguese adventure.

The limited group size ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable hosts, who are available in both English and Portuguese. This allows for a more meaningful and tailored experience, where guests can freely engage with the guides and fellow participants. The intimate Fado performance during the traditional Portuguese dinner further enhances the authenticity of the evening.

Group Size	Personalized Attention	Authentic Experience
Limited to 10	Knowledgeable Hosts	Fado Performance
Small and Exclusive	English & Portuguese	Traditional Portuguese Dinner

Flexible Booking and Cancellation Policy

For the Fonseca cellar tour and Fado experience, guests can easily book and cancel their reservations with a flexible policy.

Visitors enjoy the convenience of reserving now and paying later, while also benefiting from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This hassle-free booking process ensures guests can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

The flexible policy includes:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the event
• Option to reserve now and pay later
• Easy online booking system
• Availability for small groups up to 10 participants
• Multilingual hosts to assist with the booking process

This accommodating approach allows visitors to fully enjoy the Fonseca cellar tour and Fado experience without worrying about rigid restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Allowed on the Tour and Dinner?

Children are welcome on the tour and dinner. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience. Families should check with the provider about any age-specific requirements or accommodations.

Is the Fado Performance Suitable for People With Hearing Impairments?

The fado performance may not be fully accessible for people with hearing impairments, as it relies heavily on live, acoustic music. However, the hosts may be able to provide accommodations or alternative arrangements upon request.

Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Dietary Options Available?

The experience can accommodate vegetarian and gluten-free dietary needs. Guests should notify the organizers in advance so they can prepare appropriate meal options. The hosts strive to ensure all participants have an enjoyable and inclusive experience.

Can Participants Take Photographs During the Tour and Dinner?

Yes, participants can take photographs during the tour and dinner. The experience allows guests to capture the historic cellars, traditional Portuguese cuisine, and intimate Fado music performance throughout the 4-hour experience.

Is Transportation to and From the Event Provided?

No, transportation to and from the event is not provided. Participants are responsible for making their own arrangements to get to and from the Fonseca Port Wine Cellars for the tour, dinner, and Fado experience.

Recap

This immersive experience at Fonseca’s historic Port wine cellars offers a deep dive into Portugal’s rich winemaking heritage.

From the crisp Sirocco white Port to the traditional Portuguese dinner and captivating Fado performance, this small-group tour provides an authentic and exclusive glimpse into the country’s cultural treasures.

It’s a must for any wine and cultural enthusiast seeking an unforgettable journey through the heart of Porto.

You can check availability for your dates here: