Excellence in Port, Exceptional Wines… and a Dream Pool!
Experience and Innovation
Quinta do Crasto is an estate with an impressive track record in producing exceptional Ports. The vineyard has been classified under the Feitoria designation, the highest distinction for a winery. The Douro region is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, producing fortified wine for over 400 years. Yet, it is also among the youngest regions in terms of non-fortified wine production. In fact, it was only in 1994 that Quinta do Crasto bottled its first vintages of dry red wines.
Quinta do Crasto is a century-old estate renowned for its high-end Ports and now delights lovers of non-fortified wines as well. Reflecting modern trends, the estate also embraces wine tourism, offering attractions of incredible beauty.
Deep Roots
The estate was founded in 1615, ranking it among the oldest in Portugal, although its “official” history begins in 1886 when Constantino de Almeida acquired it. The name of the vineyard, Quinta do Crasto, literally means “the farm of the Roman fort,” combining Portuguese and Latin words.
The Most Admired Plot
The Vinha Maria Teresa plot, named after the founder Almeida’s first granddaughter, is the most significant part of the estate. With a remarkable east-facing orientation, the plot was planted in 1903 with more than 60 indigenous grape varieties. It is no surprise that the grapes cultivated here are of exceptional quality, though yields remain very low.
Precious Ports
Over the past 20 years, the family has only occasionally tasted the 1887 vintage Port, of which a few bottles remain carefully preserved. Produced and bottled on the estate, this phenomenal wine offers great complexity and character, according to Miguel Roquette. A proud heir is the LBV 2011 Port, crafted from old vines.
…And the Pool?
Why mention the pool when there is so much to say about this century-old vineyard? Because the pool is literally breathtaking. Designed by the renowned architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, the infinity pool is cited by Miguel Roquette as one of the estate’s main attractions. Carved from schist and adjoining a terrace, it captivates visitors who come to enjoy both the wines and the stunning Douro views, with the pool water appearing as if sourced directly from the river.
Behind the Wines
Leonor and Jorge Roquette