The Alto Minho is a territory where nature breathes tranquillity and time seems to slow down. At Carvalha House, our purpose has always been to offer you a refuge of silence, calm and authenticity. It is in this spirit of slow tourism that we invite you to discover one of our most exclusive and memorable activities: the Wine Tasting with Fado Experience.
The magic of this journey begins right outside our property. Guided personally by us, Manuela and José Maria Quintanilha, our guests are invited to walk a stunning stretch of the local eco-trail. Surrounded by green vineyards and flanked by slender cypresses that stand out against the blue sky, the footpath offers a total immersion in the rural landscape. As we walk side by side with nature, we take in the vastness of the valley, where the vibrant green of the vegetation meets the serene waters of the river and the engineering of the bridges in the distance. It is the perfect setting for those looking to "switch off completely from routine" and find physical and mental rest.
Our destination is the picturesque Quinta do Cerqueiral. On arrival, we are greeted by a magnificent artistic mural on the stone walls, honouring the hard and beautiful tradition of the harvest, depicting baskets laden with grapes and bottles of the region’s precious nectar. As we enter the cellar, the unmistakable aroma of fermentation hangs in the air. The imposing stainless-steel vats and the vast, perfectly aligned rows of bottles attest to the dedication and rigour behind this wine of excellence, part of the largest Denomination of Origin (DO) in Portugal, the Vinho Verde Region.
But the true climax of this experience awaits us outside. On a welcoming panoramic terrace, sheltered by a trellis of vines that gently filters the sunlight, we lay a table full of boards of local delicacies to accompany the estate’s fresh, vibrant wines. While Manuela ensures, with her warm hospitality, that no detail is missing in welcoming our visitors, José Maria picks up his guitar. As many of our guests have fondly attested in their reviews, José Maria is an excellent guitarist and singer.
With the stunning landscape of the valley and the river as a backdrop, the notes of the guitar and the emotion of Fado echo across the terrace. This is not a standardised experience; it is a moment of pure sharing, where Minho culture, gastronomy and music come together in an intimate, family atmosphere.
This is not just a wine tasting; it is a deep sensory experience that takes root in the memory. It is the embodiment of our motto: "Wake up, breathe nature." If you are looking for a romantic getaway or a retreat away from the city bustle, join us.
Book your Wine Tasting with Fado at Carvalha House now and let yourself be swept up by the timeless magic of the Alto Minho. Find out more and fill in the form to secure your place in this unforgettable experience.
