Port Wine Taylors: Best Porto Cellar Tour & Tasting

January 23, 2025
by: hungrypursuit

Port Wine Taylors: Introduction

Porto is in the heart of the famous Port wine region of Douro Valley. No visit is complete without exploring Taylor’s wine cellar. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this Port Wine Taylors experience. From its history to tasting tours, and how to pre-book tickets for a tour and tasting at the iconic cellars. You’ll discover why it’s one of the best Port wine experiences in Porto and learn so much on our visit. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable experience, this blog has you covered.

Port Wine Taylors: Why Vist?

Taylor’s Port Wine is one of the oldest and most respected names in Porto. Founded in 1692, it has been producing high-quality Port wine for over 300 years. The family-owned company has remained dedicated to making only the finest Ports.

What makes Taylor’s stand out is its history and connection to Porto. Taylor’s is known for making some of the best Vintage Ports. Its wines are elegant, full of character, and built to last.

Taylor’s is also known for its rare wood-aged Ports. The company holds one of the largest collections of these aged wines. Taylor’s was also the first to create Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port, and today it remains the leader in this category.

When you visit Taylor’s, you’re not just visiting a cellar. You’re experiencing the legacy of a family-run company that has been perfecting its craft for generations. Taylor’s is involved in every step of the process, from growing grapes to bottling the wine. Its commitment to quality and sustainable practices ensures that its Ports are some of the best you’ll ever taste.

This reputation of excellence and history makes Taylor’s a must-visit for a Port wine tasting in Porto.

Port Wine Taylors: Location & Address

If you’re in Porto, the Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar is located in Vila Nova de Gaia. It’s located across the river from the Porto side. You can find the exact map address below.

Taylors Google Maps Address:
Rua do Choupelo 250, Vila Nova de Gaia, 4400-088, Portugal

You can get to Taylors Cellars easily by foot, taxi, or public transport from central Porto.

Port Wine Taylors: Self-Guided Cellar Tour

Main Entrance

On the Ultimate Port Wine Taylor cellar tour you will explore various areas ending with the tasting. We pre-booked tickets in advance for our self-guided tour and tasting. To note, the cellar tour is self-guided but the tasting you will be served by staff. Once you arrive, make your way to the entrance.

Once inside, if you pre-booked tickets you will show your QR code or email confirmation at the front desk. The staff will then provide you with a map and an English audio guide. Audio guides are available in 13 languages.

Taylors Cellar & Port Wine Casks

Explore the recently renovated 300-year-old cellars at your own pace and get the most out of the experience with an audio guide. We found the cellar room to be the coolest with thousands of wood casks. Each wood cask can typically hold around 630 liters and is used to age Tawny ports.

History Of Port Wine - Taylors Exhibits

There will be signs leading you to the next exhibit easily flowing from room to room. It was amazing how much you can learn about Port wine history, its production process, and the Douro Valley. Furthermore, the house of Taylor Fladgate, its past, present, and wealth of Port wines. You will learn about its evolution and how it pioneered the presentation of the first Dry White Port. Overall, the self-guided tour was done brilliantly because of all the interactive areas. Taylors was the creator of the Late Bottled Vintage, a successful style found all over Porto.

Taylors Courtyard Exterior

One of the things that distinguishes this port wine taylors experience from others is its views! Furthermore, it’s serene setting amongst the greenery and tucked away from the busy riverside. The courtyard at Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar is a warm and inviting area. It’s surrounded by historic stone walls.

Following the tour inside, step into the courtyard. You will notice all the traditional architecture, blending beautifully with the lush greenery. The area is well-maintained, with flowering plants and charming cobblestone paths.

Best port wine tasting porto

We had the best port wine-tasting experience in Porto at Taylors. After the cellar tour, you will experience an outdoor tasting.

You will start with the Chip Dry – Extra Dry White. It tasted refreshing and crisp wine. You will then taste a Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), a rich and fruity Port that highlights Taylor’s signature style.

What separates this Port wine taylors experience is the picturesque views of Porto. We recommend walking towards the balcony with a patio set for your tasting. The views of the red rooftops and Luis Bridge are stunning!

Are you interested in seeing all the best views in Porto? Check out our Best Viewpoints in Porto Guide.

Is Taylor Port wine sweet or dry?

Port wine at Taylors can be both sweet and dry, it depends on the type. For example, the Chip Dry Extra Dry White is a drier option, hence the name. However, its Tawny Ports and Ruby Ports are sweet, resembling fruity or nutty flavors.

Can you drink Taylor Port wine straight?

Yes, you can drink Taylor Port wine straight. It’s often enjoyed on its own as a dessert wine after a meal. To best enjoy it, drink it slightly chilled or at room temperature. That will depend based on the type of port.

Which Taylor Port is the best?

The best Taylor Port is generally subjective. However, the vintage ports are known to be its finest. We have tried the Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) and it’s a great choice for an everyday option. The 10-Year-Old Tawny offers a smooth and nutty experience.

Port Wine Taylors - Tickets for Best Port Wine Tasting & Cellar Tour

Pre-booking tickets for the ultimate Port wine taylors cellar & tasting experience is recommended. This is to ensure you lock down your ideal date and time you’re visiting Porto.

Ticket Cost: 25 Euros ($26.09 USD)

Pre-Book Taylors Port Wine Tasting & Cellar Tour

Conclusion: Port Wine Taylors Experience Review

So is visiting Taylor’s in Porto worth it? Absolutely! This Port Wine Taylors experience provides a unique experience that combines history, quality, and picturesque views. Being oldest Port houses in Porto, you can see why it has a reputation for world-class Ports. We didn’t expect the surrounding grounds to be as beautiful as it was. The serene setting highlighting the panoramic terrace views over Porto makes it a must-visit.

If you’re looking for the best Port wine tasting experience in Porto, we recommend this one.

Don’t forget to include this Port wine Taylors experience in your Porto itinerary, and share your experience! Did you try the 20-year-old Tawny, or perhaps enjoy snag a spot on the terrace? Let us know in the comments or on social media!

Where to Buy Taylors Port Wine

Taylor’s Port is available in many wine shops, liquor stores, and online retailers. We have listed some options below!

Local Wine Shops

Visit your nearest specialty wine store or high-end liquor store. Many carry a range of Taylor’s Ports, from their classic Fine Ruby to the coveted Vintage Ports.

Supermarkets

Supermarkets that have a good wine selection often stock Taylor’s Ports. Mainly in countries with a strong wine-drinking culture like the UK, Portugal, Canada, or the US. In the US it may be found in stores like Waitrose or Tesco. In the UK, try Sainsbury’s.

3. Online Retailers

Totalwine.com: This company operates 276 superstores across 29 states. They carry about 15 options for Taylor’s which can be shipped or picked up at a nearby location.

Wine.com: They offer Taylor’s Ports and ship to most U.S. states.

Vivino: You can purchase directly on the website or read reviews to find the right one. It ships globally, you can filter for the country.

Master of Malt or The Whisky Exchange: Great for UK-based buyers.

4. Taylor’s Port Cellar In Porto Portugal

If you’re visiting Porto, you can buy directly at Taylor’s Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. They offer tastings, exclusive vintages, and packaged sets.

5. Duty-Free Shops

If you’re visiting Portugal, you can find it at the major airports. Pick up Taylor’s Port at the airport duty-free store. This can be a good place to find gift sets or limited editions.

6. Taylors Port Website

Visit the official website, enter your geographical info and it will find you the nearest location that sells it.

Port Wine Taylors - FAQ Commonly Asked Questions

Why is Taylor Port wine so popular?

Taylor’s Port embodies the centuries-long tradition of producing top-quality Ports. More specifically, it’s Vintage Ports and wood cask-aged Tawny Ports. Its history dates back to 1692, and notably a pioneer in the industry. Taylors has undoubtedly set the standard for premium Port wines.

Which Taylor Port wine is the best?

Taylor’s vintage ports and 20-year-old Tawny Port are often known as the best. For an exclusive experience, the Taylor’s Scion is a rare 1855 Port. If you’re relatively new, the tour of the cellar allows you to taste a very good Late Bottled Vintage (LBV).

How many port lodges are there in Porto?

There are over 15 Port lodges located in Porto’s Vila Nova de Gaia district. This area is located just across the river from Porto. You will find iconic names like Taylor’s, Graham’s, Cálem, and Sandeman. Each port wine house offers a unique experience. It’s one of the best things to do in Porto.

What Are The Best times to visit to avoid crowds?

Visiting Taylor’s Wine Cellar in the early morning or late afternoon during weekdays is recommended. The shoulder travel season months of April, May, September, and October offer fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. We always recommend booking a tour in advance to secure your spot, time, and date.

Other Best Port Wine Tasting Experiences in Porto

Porto has the best Port wine tasting experiences in the world. Each cellar offers a unique tasting experience. Taylor’s differentiates itself because of its historical achievements, and top-tier vintages. However, there are other names in the business that some may deem as the best port wine tasting experience. Let’s cover them below.

Graham’s Port Lodge: Like Taylors, it also has some stunning views of the Douro River. It offers guided tours of one of the oldest Port wine cellars in Porto.

Sandeman Cellars: Known for its iconic logo and cool branding, Sandeman provides a fun twist to Port wine tasting. It’s located in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Cálem Cellars: Possibly the most popular in Porto. It’s known for its group tours & interactive experience. Caves Cálem offers some of the best port tastings tours in Porto.

Why we love Taylor’s Port

While all the port wine houses are so unique we absolutely loved Taylors. Taylor’s combination of history, prestige, and beautiful location and exhibits, was a wonderful time. It’s one of the oldest Port wine producers that are still in operation and use some of the historic traditional wine-making methods . Its terrace overlooks Porto’s skyline setting the tone for a picturesque spot to sip on a Port. You have access to some of the most rare port vintages.

Therefore, if you’re looking for the best port wine tasting in Porto, consider Taylor’s Port!

Porto Attractions List

If you’re traveling to Porto there are many activities and attractions including this Port Wine Taylors experience! Check out our detailed guides below. If you only have 1 day in Porto we have a jam-packed itinerary for you. For more than 1 day, check out our Ultimate Porto Itinerary.

Interested in more wine experiences in the Douro Valley? We went on the most amazing Douro Valley Wine Tour Including Lunch, and a river cruise. We also share the 3 best tours to take from Porto in a detailed travel guide.

Andrew & Melissa

@HungryPursuit

Port Wine Taylors: Best Porto Cellar Tour & Tasting

Table of Contents

Port Wine Taylors: Introduction

Port Wine Taylors: Why Vist?

Port Wine Taylors: Location & Address