Quinta dos Aciprestes

Since 1860, Quinta dos Aciprestes, has been a successful conglomerate of three neighbouring Quintas. The original Quinta, named Cyprestes, was founded during the 18th Century by D. José de Seabra, one of D. Maria I, Queen of Portugal’s miniters, and later passed onto his predecessors the Vicounts of Baía.

Today, Quinta dos Aciprestes extends for over 2 km on the left bank of the River Douro, facing the tributary River Tua. The Quinta is easily identified by the Cypress trees, located by the house, and for its characteristic landscape of vertical vine plantation, highlighted by the absence of the traditional terraces, result of the recent reconversion that took place in the vineyard. The Quinta has seen a complete re-plantation of its vineyards, with the noblest varieties of the region. The optimal microclimate at this 100-hectar vineyard, located within Cima Corgo close to the Douro Superior sub-region, offers ideal conditions for perfect ripening of red grapes.

As a result of that transformation, 90% of existing vines were recently planted applying the vertical planting system. Real Companhia Velha is a pioneer in the introduction of this system in the Douro, allowing an increase of mechanical work in the vineyard.

Quinta dos Aciprestes is one of the Douro’s most recognized Estates for the excelence of its terroir, having been attributed with grade A for the Assignment of Benefit for Port Wine. The quality and singularity of there Red wines produced here for more than two centuries, is immedietly associated with the traditional style of Douro reds.

The Estate is portrayed for it magnificent landscape, bordering the river Douro in an extention of 2,2 km, and presents its vineyards beautifully surfacing the slopes, in the heart of the Demarcated Region of the Douro Valley, in an area of excellence. The Quinta is located in the area of Soutelo do Douro, facing the mouth of the river Tua (tributary to the Douro), and in a place of transition between the two sub-regions Cima Corgo and Douro Superior.

Quinta dos Aciprestes is a typically characteristic property for the Region and a clear example of mountain viticulture. The vineyard is planted in reasonably steep slopes in which gradient levels are between 30 to 50%.

The total area of the Quinta is located between 100 metres and 350 metres of altitude (sea level), slighty above the River Douro. Its sun exposure is mainly northern, between northeast and north-west directions. This sun exposition is particularl interesting as it forms a specific microclimate, which is a key factor of the Aciprestes “terroir”.