The Douro Valley during harvest is an experience unlike any other. I remember the first time I saw the valley come alive in late August, with the air buzzing with excitement and anticipation. The hills were dotted with workers picking grapes under the scorching 40°C sun, their hands moving swiftly yet carefully as they gathered the fruit that would soon become some of the world’s finest ports and wines.
It’s hard to imagine that 70 to 90 million kilograms of grapes are picked each season in Douro, big part of that by hand, to be transformed into must for both port and Douro DOC still wines.
One of the most unforgettable parts of the harvest is the grape stomping. I had the chance to experience foot treading in the traditional granite lagares, which is still practiced at many Douro estates. It’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations, and feeling the grapes squish under your feet as you stomp in rhythm with others is something special. As my sister said, one must put this experience onto their bucket list.
Another thing that strikes me is the sense of community. During harvest, everyone pitches in – workers, students, public employees. For visitors like us, there are opportunities to join in, whether you’re looking for a fun experience or want to volunteer and be part of something bigger.
If you ever find yourself in the Douro Valley during harvest time – usually in the month of September, I’d highly recommend giving it a try. It’s a way to connect with the culture and the land, and it’s something you’ll never forget.
What to expect?
Harvest programs must be pre-arranged with wineries. Wineries set out potential dates. However, as harvest takes place only during certain days according to the ripeness of the grapes and weather, be prepared for possible activity rescheduling or cancellation.
Each winery has its own way of doing things, but this is something you can expect.
Harvesting in the Douro Valley starts early, before the day heats up. As you arrive you will be handed a pair of scissors and a bucket, and off you go into the vineyards to pick ripe grapes alongside professional local pickers. You will likely hear traditional singing that adds a soothing rhythm to the work.
As this job is quite physically demanding, you will likely only spend an hour or so in the vineyards before lunch. Harvest lunch can either be prepared for you or you would join local workers for a chance to interact and connect with the people of Douro.
In the afternoon, when the grapes are collected they will be transported to old granite containers inside a winery. Change clothes, rinse your feet and jump into a lagar and start walking, marching or join a traditional dance.
After the work is done, you will be rewarded with a tasting session. Some quintas offer to end the day with a relaxed dinner or another tasting.
What to bring?
Bring a spare phone charger as you will likely be taking many photos.
Where to go?
At Quinta do Tedo, you have the unique opportunity to harvest grapes alongside one of the owners, Kay Bouchard, and the team of grape-pickers.
The program is a full-day experience that includes a winery tour, lunch, and a wine tasting.
In the afternoon, you can join in on the foot treading of the grapes, which is a highlight of the day and a lot of fun.
Quinta do Tedo usually hosts this event on a specific date in September.
At Quinta Nova Senhora de Carmo, a beautiful winery and a Relais & Chateaux hotel, the harvest experience includes a wine tasting, where you can savor some of the estate’s best offerings. After grape-picking you’ll enjoy a regional harvest lunch served buffet-style, all while being entertained by traditional music.
Why not staying at the luxury hotel, so you can relax by the pool with gorgeous views of the valley.
At Quinta da Roêda in Pinhão, join a harvest experience that includes a guided visit of the estate, a tasting of Croft ports, grape treading in the traditional lagares, a hat and T-shirt as keepsakes.
For an enhanced experience, there’s also an option that includes a picnic amidst the beautiful surroundings.
try out Quinta do Infantado.
Their harvest program is the most immersive. Beyond a guided tour, a tasting and a delicious lunch, you’ll have the chance to truly engage with the winemaking process. Start your day in the vineyard, where you’ll pick grapes by hand, scissors in tow. Afterward, head to the winery to carefully select the best grapes on the sorting table. From there, you’ll move on to the wine press and witness the initial stages of fermentation, including the age-old tradition of grape treading. The program is held on Saturdays from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm during the harvest season.
We create Douro Valley itineraries and can help you book a harvest experience. Contact us with your preferred dates.
