The Quinta do Cerro da Nora is a gem in the Douro Wine Region — the oldest demarcated wine region in the world.
Owned by Douro Wine Devotion since 1996, the estate blends tradition, innovation, and exceptional terroir, capturing the essence of Douro wines in every bottle.
A Legacy of Devotion
The story begins in 1964 with Manuel, who acquired the Quinta do Castelinho and started a family tradition spanning three generations. In 2005, his daughter Maria Elisa and son-in-law João modernized the winery with state-of-the-art technology. Today, granddaughter Cláudia Santos, a pharmacist by training and an enologist by passion, produces DOC Douro wines and high-quality Port wines that honor the region.
Terroir in the Heart of the Douro
Situated on the left bank of the Pinhão River, opposite the picturesque village of São Cristóvão do Douro, the estate expanded from 4 to 12 hectares, all classified as Grade A, the highest rating in the Douro.
On its schist soils with ideal sun exposure, noble grape varieties thrive: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca, and Sousão. What was once rock and scrub has been transformed into a unique viticultural heritage, the result of meticulous “territorial filigree.”
As the writer Miguel Torga said:
“The Douro sublimated. A landscape so excessive it ceases to be a landscape. Terraces carved by titanic men, volumes, colors, and modulations no artist can fully translate, horizons stretched beyond the plausible limits of vision.”
Tradition and Innovation in the Winery
The grapes are vinified at Quinta do Castelinho, equipped with 7 stainless steel lagares, temperature control, and a mechanical treading system that recreates traditional foot-treading. The winery has a maturation capacity of 750,000 liters across stainless steel, barrels, tonels, and French oak casks, producing wines with color, aroma, structure, and strong personality.
Internationally Awarded Douro Wines
The Grande Reserva 2011 marked the debut, winning gold and silver medals in international competitions and scoring over 90 points from top wine critics. The Grande Reserva 2012 continues this legacy, delivering the elegance, character, and Douro identity that have captivated judges, critics, and wine lovers worldwide.
Wines with Soul, Perfect for Special Moments
More than wine, Quinta do Cerro da Nora blends the richness of a unique terroir with the expertise of a grandfather, the vision of a daughter, and the passion of a granddaughter. Wines with soul, perfect for sharing memorable moments.
Explore Vinha.co.uk and follow Cláudia Santos’ advice:
“Drink in a way that brings the greatest pleasure, savoring the care with which it was made.”
