About the Douro Boys

Wine production in the Douro Valley dates back more than 2,000 years but the stunning region became inextricably linked to Port wine in international markets from the 18^th century onwards. The wealth of native grape varieties and old vines in the Douro – and their potential for quality table wines – was somewhat overshadowed for a time.

Then in 2003, five intrepid producers decided to change this, banding together to showcase not only their premium Ports but also their table wines on the international stage. Over the next two decades, they worked tirelessly to put the potential of all their wines and region with its steep slopes straddling the Douro River firmly on the world wine map.

Under their collective banner, this group has restored the preeminent place of Douro wines and built on their success by collectively organizing countless seminars and tastings around the globe (and a special auction or two!). They have also cultivated appreciation for the remarkable quality and character of Douro wines by hosting some of the coolest wine figures at home in their UNESCO World Heritage region.

Just as winemaking in the Douro has evolved but, at the same time, preserved traditional practices and regional culture such as hand picking and foot stomping grapes, the Douro Boys’ alliance has also matured while remaining true to its essence.

Today, the four winemaking businesses – Quinta do Vallado, Niepoort, Quinta do Crasto and Quinta do Vale Meão – remain in the hands of the same families, some of whom are direct descendants of Douro pioneers. However, the next generation of “boys” (and girls) are stepping up to chart an exciting new course to promote the depth and beauty of Douro wines. Watch this space!

The Douro Boys like to think of themselves as a ‘perfect cuvée’ but each estate has their own distinct personality:

Quinta do Vallado is one of Portugal’s most well-known wineries, producing high quality wines and welcoming thousands of guests each year to their two breathtaking hotels in the midst of the Douro Valley. Cousins João Ferreira Álvares Ribeiro and Francisco Ferreira, sixth generation descendants of Dona Antónia Ferreira, currently run the business, while João Roquette, the son of João Ferreira Álvares Ribeiro, also plays an active role.

Quinta do Vale Meão, a 300-ha estate in Douro Superior, was founded in 1877 by Antónia A. Ferreira and remains in the hands of her descendants. Ownership was consolidated by Francisco J. de Olazabal in 1994. In 1999, he and his son Francisco shifted focus to producing and marketing wines from the estate though F Olazabal Filhos. Today, Francisco and his siblings Luísa and Jaime manage the company, driven by their shared passion for wine.

Quinta do Crasto, located halfway between Régua and Pinhão, is in the capable hands of the lively brothers Tómas and Miguel Roquette, while their father Jorge proudly oversees the evolution of his family’s winery. Their wines are brilliant representations of the varieties and terroir. Visitors can experience the atmosphere first-hand by touring the Quinta and exploring various wine tourism options. (If you visit, don’t forget to check out our tips for your trip.)

Niepoort is led by Dirk van der Niepoort, the fifth generation to lead the storied family company, and his eldest son, Daniel. Niepoort has been a driving force behind the development of the Douro Valley during the last few decades and its innovations have inspired many others to produce Port and premium table wines with their own unique signature.