The Douro is a classic Portuguese appellation that sits along the banks of the Douro River, where steep, terraced vineyards catch both warm days and cooler evenings. It is best known for producing rich, expressive reds, but you will also find well made rosés and aromatic whites, each reflecting the character of the landscape.

Because the vines are often planted on rugged slopes, viticulture here is typically careful and labour intensive, helping to preserve flavour and balance as the grapes ripen. Red Douro wines are commonly blended styles, frequently built on traditional varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz. Look out for aromas that can range from ripe black fruit and plum to floral notes, with a firm but polished structure.

If you are exploring the wider Appellation range, Douro is a great place to start or to add variety to your table. Try it with roasted meats, hearty stews, mature cheeses, or even richer vegetable dishes. With so many expressions available, there is likely a bottle to suit everything from relaxed evenings to special meals.