Kopke Port House

Kopke is small but perfectly formed

If you’re short on time, Casa Kopke (established in 1638, and pronounced ‘cop-key’) is a petite, three-storey port house on Cais de Gaia that does short, casual tastings where you can sample a flight of wines with either cheese or chocolate. Sure, you don’t get the full cellar tour, but this is regarded as some of the best port in town, and the upstairs lounge has great views of the Douro River. For the in-and-out tasting experience, it’s pretty hard to beat.

Avenida de Diogo Leite 312, Vila Nova de Gaia
kopke1638.com

Graham’s

A barrel of laughs at Graham's Port Lodge / Image: João Pedro Marnoto

Away from the main drag of busy Cais de Gaia is a port house that clued-in supermarket shoppers might recognise. Established in 1890, it’s a relative newcomer to the scene but is still one of the ultimate port experiences in town. There’s a museum, beautifully restored cellars, a gorgeous tasting room, epic views of the city and a bunch of different tasting options that means it works for more discriminating palates as well as total newbs. A lovely spot – plan to linger.

Rua do Agro 141, Vila Nova de Gaia
grahams-port.com