The Alto Minho is a territory where nature breathes tranquillity and time seems to slow down. At Carvalha House, our aim has always been to offer you a haven of silence, calm and authenticity. It is in this spirit of slow tourism we invite you to discover one of our most exclusive and memorable activities: the Wine Tasting Experience with Fado.
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 along a stunning stretch of the local ecovillage. Surrounded by verdant vineyards and flanked by slender cypress trees that cut through the blue sky, the footpath offers a total immersion in the countryside. As we walk side by side with nature, we contemplate the immensity 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's the perfect setting for those looking to “completely disconnect 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, which pays homage to the arduous and beautiful tradition of the grape harvest, illustrating baskets laden with grapes and bottles of the region's precious nectar. When you enter the cellar, the unmistakable aroma of fermentation hangs in the air. The imposing stainless steel vats and the immense rows of perfectly aligned bottles attest to the dedication and rigor in the production of this wine of excellence, which is part of the largest winery in the region. Denomination of Origin (DO) in Portugal, the Vinho Verde Region.
But the real climax of this experience awaits us outside. On a cozy panoramic terrace, sheltered by a trellis of vines that gently filters the sunlight, we prepare a table filled with platters of local delicacies to accompany the farm's fresh and vibrant wines. While Manuela ensures, with her warm hospitality, that no detail is missed when welcoming our visitors, José Maria picks up his guitar. As many of our guests have already lovingly attested in their reviews, José Maria is an excellent guitarist and singer.
With the breathtaking 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 standardized experience; it is a moment of pure sharing, where Minho culture, gastronomy and music come together in an intimate and familiar way.
This isn't just a wine tasting; it's a deep sensory experience that takes root in the memory. It is the embodiment of our motto: “Wake up, breathe nature”. If you're looking for a romantic getaway or a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, join us.
Book your Wine Tasting with Fado at Carvalha House now and let yourself be enveloped by the timeless magic of Alto Minho. Find out more details and complete the form to secure your place on this unforgettable experience.
