This region has a microclimate allowing for the cultivation of olives, almonds and especially grapes for the production of port wine.
 

We made our base at Tabuaço, a charming hill-top village.

Our accommodation was in an 18th Century vintner's manor.

We were the only guests and had free access to every amenity, including the well-stocked bar.
 

Many quintas (estates) in the area of Pinhão and Peso da Régua offer tours and tastings; others have guest houses.

Hundreds of grape varieties are sanctioned for port and unfortified wines, although only a few types are grown in large quantities.

Views of the terraced vineyards were spectacular from terraces and balconies.
 

During our informative visit to the Fonseca quinta  we learned how port wines are blended, aged and classified.

Traditionally port wines were transported down the river in flat-bottomed boats called rabelos.
 

The port wines were stored in barrels in cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Porto.