Taylor's Lodge undergoes major refurbishment

Nestled in the heart of the historic city of Vila Nova de Gaia, Taylor’s Port is undergoing a major refurbishment of its cellars and visitor centre.  This iconic British Port house, which was established in 1692, has updated its tourism facilities offering visitors to Oporto a wonderful insight into the world of Port and a chance to taste its famous wines.

 

For an entry fee of 12 Euros, tourists can hire an audio tour which is available in five languages; English, Spanish, French, German and Portuguese.  The tour takes visitors through the cathedral-like cellars which house gigantic, ancient wooden vats and over 1,500 casks which contain precious stocks of young and aged Ports ahead of their release to worldwide markets.

 

Below the cellars are tunnels housing Taylor’s legendary Vintage Ports, some dating back two centuries.  Bottles lie in state while they mature over many years to reach perfect maturity before they are removed, labelled and packed in wooden cases for onward sale.  The collection is one of the most impressive sights of Vintage Port to be found under one roof and definitely not to be missed.

 

Following the tour, visitors move to the tasting room and enjoy a chilled glass of Chip Dry White Port and a glass of Taylor’s Late Bottled Vintage Port as part of the entry fee.  Other Taylor’s Ports will also be available to taste and buy at the visitor centre including Taylor’s Vintage 2009 and Taylor’s 1966 Single Harvest Ports.  In addition, there will be a range of snacks and chocolates for the more experimental to try with their glass of Port.  Knowledgeable staff will be on hand to provide further information and assist with the tastings.

 

Speaking on behalf of Taylor’s Port, Managing Director Adrian Bridge added, "We felt that it was time to update our visit using modern technology to enhance the visitors’ experience.  There is content for a two hour visit if guests wish to see and learn all they can. However, many will chose to head to the tasting room sooner where they have access to an extensive range of our Ports by the glass.” 

 

Taylor’s Port cellars are located on the southern bank of the river Douro where it runs through the heart of the city of Oporto. It provides the ideal oasis for visitors to relax and soak up the spectacular views of the city and river from its hillside terrace.  It is open all year round from 10am to 7.30pm (last tour at 6pm).