Visit to Colares Vineyards – Hélder Cunha Winemaker

Tucked away on the Sintra Peninsula lies the picturesque Colares Vineyards, where renowned winemaker Hélder Cunha blends traditional and modern techniques to craft exceptional wines. Guests can enjoy the rich history of this unique terroir, marked by sandy soil and a mild climate ideal for cultivating ancient grape varieties like Ramisco and Malvasia. Through a guided tour, visitors will gain insights into Cunha’s meticulous winemaking process and the passion that drives his acclaimed creations. With a wealth of stories and a chance to savor the fruits of his labor, the experience promises to be a true delight for wine enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Explore the unique terroir of Colares Vineyards, located near the Atlantic Ocean, and learn about the winemaking expertise of Hélder Cunha.
• Set out on a guided tour of the Colares Vineyards, including photo opportunities, to gain insights into the region’s winemaking history and traditions.
• Indulge in a wine tasting session in Cascais, accompanied by a cheese and charcuterie board, to savor the distinct flavors of Colares wines.
• Discover the ancient grape varieties, such as Ramisco and Malvasia, and the traditional "pé-franco" vine training method used in Colares winemaking.
• Benefit from the tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required for reservations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Although the tour lasts 4 hours, it’s priced reasonably at €3,781 per person.

Offered in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour departs from Casa do Preto in Sintra and includes a food tasting, a guided tour of Colares Vineyards, a stop in Sintra, and a wine tasting in Cascais with a cheese and charcuterie board.

The unique experience focuses on the history and production of the renowned Colares wine, guided by an oenologist or oenophile.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour starts at Casa do Preto in Sintra, where visitors can enjoy a 30-minute tasting of regional sweets before embarking on the main activities.

The group then heads to the Colares Vineyards for a 1-hour guided tour with photo stops.

Next, they visit Sintra for a 15-minute guided tour.

The final stop is in Cascais, where the group enjoys a 1.5-hour wine tasting session with a cheese and charcuterie board.

Notable sights along the way include Praia da Aguda and Cabo da Roca.

The tour includes transport, guided tours, wine tasting, and cheese and charcuterie.

Experience Details

This tour offers a unique journey through the charming town of Colares, where visitors can taste excellent wines made from grapes grown in the region’s sandy soil near the sea.

The focus is on the history and production of the renowned Colares wine, guided by an oenologist or oenophile. Guests will have the opportunity to visit the Colares Vineyards, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and photo stops.

The experience also includes a wine tasting in Cascais, accompanied by a selection of cheese and charcuterie.

This immersive tour provides an in-depth exploration of the rich winemaking traditions and stunning landscapes of the Colares region.

Meeting Point and Information

The tour begins at Casa do Preto in Sintra, the meeting point for this experience. Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes and water to make the most of the journey.

Here are some additional recommendations:

1. Arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start to the tour.
2. Check availability for the desired starting time, as spots may be limited.
3. Be prepared for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, so dress accordingly.
4. Review the itinerary and highlights to get a sense of what to expect during the tour.

Following these tips will help ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit to the Colares Vineyards.

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Customer Feedback

Reviewers have provided mixed feedback on the Colares Vineyards tour experience.

While one customer reported that the guide didn’t show up for their scheduled tour, the tour generally receives positive reviews.

The tour boasts a 5-star rating based on one review, indicating that when the tour runs smoothly, it offers an enjoyable and unique experience.

Visitors can expect to taste excellent wines, learn about the area’s wine history and production, and enjoy scenic views during the tour.

Given the isolated incident of a no-show guide, it’s advisable for customers to confirm tour details in advance to ensure a seamless experience.

About Colares Wines

Located on the Sintra Peninsula near the Atlantic Ocean, the Colares Vineyards are renowned for their unique terroir and world-class wines.

The region’s sandy soil, sea breeze, and mild climate produce distinctive wines with a vibrant acidity and minerality.

Some key facts about Colares wines:

1. They’re produced from ancient grape varieties like Ramisco and Malvasia, which thrive in the region’s unique conditions.
2. The vines are trained in a traditional "pê-franco" (free-standing) method, requiring meticulous manual labor.
3. Colares wines are known for their longevity, with some vintages aging gracefully for decades.
4. The limited production and hard-to-find nature of Colares wines make them highly sought-after by wine enthusiasts worldwide.

Winemaker Hélder Cunha

Hélder Cunha, a renowned winemaker, spearheads the production of Colares wines at the vineyards. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the unique terroir of this region.

Cunha’s approach blends traditional methods with modern techniques, ensuring the wines capture the essence of the Colares appellation. He meticulously oversees every step of the winemaking process, from grape selection to fermentation and aging.

Cunha’s expertise and dedication have earned the Colares wines critical acclaim, making them a must-try for wine enthusiasts.

Visitors to the vineyards will have the opportunity to learn from Cunha’s passion and gain insights into the rich history and traditions that define these exceptional wines.

Tour Booking and Pricing

Booking a tour of the Colares Vineyards is a straightforward process. The 4-hour tour starts from €3,781 per person and is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

Some key details:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
2. Reserve now and pay later – no upfront payment required.
3. The tour includes transport, a guided visit, wine tasting, and a cheese and charcuterie board.
4. Availability may vary, so it’s recommended to check for starting times.

While one past reviewer reported a no-show guide, the overall experience appears to offer an immersive journey through the unique Colares wine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Dietary Requirements for the Tour?

The tour’s dietary requirements are not explicitly stated. However, it includes a wine tasting and a cheese and charcuterie board, suggesting it may not accommodate strict dietary restrictions. Guests with specific dietary needs should check with the tour operator in advance.

Can I Consume Alcohol During the Tour?

Yes, participants can consume alcohol during the tour. The tour includes a wine tasting in Cascais, where guests can sample the region’s wines paired with a cheese and charcuterie board.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children, as it primarily focuses on wine tasting and appreciation. While children are welcome, they won’t be able to participate in the key activities of the tour.

Can I Take the Tour in a Different Language?

Yes, the tour can be provided in different languages as the tour description states it is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Customers can choose their preferred language when booking the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy for this tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can book their spot without any upfront payment and cancel as needed.

Recap

Visiting the Colares Vineyards offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich history and exceptional wines of this picturesque region. Guided by renowned winemaker Hélder Cunha, guests can enjoy the meticulous winemaking process, exploring the intricacies of this distinctive terroir. With its ancient grape varieties, sandy soil, and mild climate, the Colares Vineyards promise an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts.

You can check if your dates are available here: