The Douro is a prestigious Portuguese wine region along the Douro River, extending eastward from Porto. Sheltered by mountain ranges, the area is protected from coastal influences, creating a unique microclimate ideal for viticulture. It holds Portugal’s highest wine classification as a Denominação de Origem Controlada (DOC).
While the Douro is best known for its iconic Port wines, it also produces an equal amount of high-quality table wines, commonly referred to as “Douro wines.”
The Douro Valley extends across the lower valleys of its tributaries, including the Varosa, Corgo, Távora, Torto, and Pinhão Rivers. The Marão and Montemuro Mountains shield the region from Atlantic winds, resulting in a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters.
Terraced vineyards dominate the landscape, a defining feature of the region. Port wine vineyards are typically planted on schist soils, which retain heat and provide excellent drainage. Table wine vineyards are found in granite-based soils, contributing to their structure and minerality.
Gateway Douro represents the classic expression of Douro wines, offering great value, food-friendly, and well-balanced wines that showcase the best qualities of this historic region.
