Burmester VIP Tour

Imagine stepping into the elegant world of Portuguese Port wines, wandering through historic cellars, and sampling some of the best ports paired with local delicacies—all in an exclusive, relaxed setting. For around $53 per person, this Burmester VIP Tour offers a taste of Portugal’s renowned wine heritage in the Norte Region, specifically in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Porto. The experience lasts about a couple of hours and is designed for those who want a more personal connection to the wines and the winemakers.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small-group, intimate atmosphere lets you really get close to the cellar and ask detailed questions—something you won’t get on larger, busier tours. Second, the highlight of visiting the old Vintage cellar adds a layer of authenticity and history that’s often missing elsewhere. We also love the pairing aspect: three exceptional ports served alongside traditional Portuguese foods like soft eggs from Aveiro, São Jorge cheese, and almond cookies—delicious bites that enhance the tasting experience.

However, keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and transportation is not included, so you’ll need to plan how to get there. If you’re a lover of fine wines, authentic stories, and cozy settings, this tour is perfect for you. It’s especially appealing for those who want a more personalized, relaxed Port wine experience rather than a large-group commercial visit.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Smaller tour groups for a more personal visit.
• Historic Cellars: Visit the old Vintage cellar, adding depth to the tasting.
• Expert Pairings: Three ports paired with traditional Portuguese snacks.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Behind-the-scenes look at Burmester’s historic operations.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, cancel easily with 24 hours’ notice.
• Location: Easy to reach starting at Burmester cellar next to Luiz I bridge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Burmester VIP Tour

When we first heard about this tour, we appreciated that it offers a more intimate alternative to larger port cellars. For those who love wine tasting but dislike feeling like just another face in a crowd, this VIP experience promises a personal touch. The guided tour of the cellars kicks off with a walk through the historic Vintage cellar, where relics and barrels tell stories of decades past. This visit alone is worth the price, as it provides a glimpse into the heritage and craftsmanship behind Burmester wines.

Visiting the Vintage Cellar

The Vintage cellar is a highlight for history buffs and wine aficionados alike. You’ll get to see aging ports stored in traditional casks, and your guide likely will share stories of how these ports matured and were stored over the years. The ambiance is quiet and reverent, with a sense of stepping back into time. It’s the kind of experience that makes the tasting all the more meaningful—you’re sipping not just port, but a piece of Portuguese history.

The Tasting Experience

After exploring the cellars, you’ll move outside to a private terrace—perfect for enjoying the pairing tastings. You’ll sample three top ports:

• Burmester Extra Dry, paired with a soft egg from Aveiro—an interesting contrast of crispness with a creamy texture.
• Late Bottle Vintage, matched with São Jorge cheese, a staple in Portuguese cheese boards, blending saltiness with rich port flavor.
• A 20-year-old Tawny port, paired with almond cookies (Almendrado), offering a luscious, nutty sweetness that complements the wine’s complexity.

The pairing choices aren’t just for flavor—they enhance your understanding of how ports can be enjoyed with traditional foods, making the experience both educational and delicious. Several reviews mentioned that the ports are exceptionally good, with one reviewer noting that “the tasting was paired perfectly, and the views from the terrace added to the experience.”

The Setting and Atmosphere

The private terrace provides a relaxed spot to savor your ports while soaking in the views across the Douro River and Porto’s skyline. The small size of the group makes it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention, which many visitors found very valuable. The guide, whose name we don’t know but who seems well-versed and enthusiastic, made the entire experience lively and informative.

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Practical Details

The tour begins at the Burmester cellar next to the Luiz I bridge—an easy landmark to find. It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect addition to a day of sightseeing. Remember, transportation isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly—public transit, a taxi, or walking are your options. Also, if you’re traveling with children or anyone under 18, only fruit juice and almond cookies will be served.

For those concerned about flexibility, booking is straightforward: you can reserve in advance, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible to most travelers.

Why We Think This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $53, the Burmester VIP Tour offers a rich, personalized experience that combines history, culture, and fine wine. You’re not just tasting ports; you’re engaging with the stories behind each bottle, understanding how they’re made, and seeing the historic cellars where these wines age gracefully. The pairing with traditional foods elevates the tasting beyond just sipping—it’s about appreciating the full Portuguese port tradition.

The emphasis on small-group interaction means you get more from your guide, and the visit feels less commercial and more genuine. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences and excellent wines, this tour is well worth its cost.

While it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and doesn’t include transportation, its location, duration, and quality of the tasting make it a standout. For travelers seeking a memorable, intimate Port wine experience in Portugal, this tour hits the mark.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers who want to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more personal, in-depth look at Portugal’s Port wine heritage. It’s ideal for those interested in history, traditional pairings, and authentic cellar visits. Couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, educational outing will find this a rewarding addition to their Portugal itinerary.

If you’re looking for a well-priced, high-quality tasting within a beautiful setting, and don’t mind the lack of included transportation, this is an experience you won’t regret. It’s especially suited for travelers who value storytelling, a cozy atmosphere, and exceptional ports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to plan how to get to the starting point, which is the Burmester cellar next to the Luiz I bridge.

What ages are suitable for this tour?
Kids under 18 are welcome, but only fruit juice with almond cookies will be served to them. The tasting experience is primarily designed for adults.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable experience within a day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Not quite, as it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the cellar visits and terrain.

In what language is the tour conducted?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

What is included in the price?
The guided tour of the cellars, a visit to the old Vintage cellar, and tastings of three ports paired with traditional foods in a private terrace.

What if I want to visit other wineries?
This tour is specific to Burmester, but similar experiences can often be found with other cellars like Taylor’s or Graham’s, though each offers unique features.

Is it worth the price?
Absolutely. For a personal, high-quality tasting combined with historical context and pairing food, $53 is a fair price that offers significant value.

If you’re seeking a more intimate glimpse into Portugal’s Port wine heritage, the Burmester VIP Tour is an excellent choice. Its focus on history, pairing excellence, and personalized attention makes it stand out from generic group tastings. For those who love authentic experiences that offer both education and enjoyment, this tour delivers—without the crowds or commercial feel.

While it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and requires you to arrange your own transport, the location, length, and quality of tasting make it a worthwhile addition to any Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia itinerary. The combination of historic cellars, expert pairing, and stunning views ensures you’ll come away with not only great wines but also memorable stories to tell.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler eager to learn more about Portugal’s port trade, this tour offers a taste of tradition, history, and excellent wine in an inviting setting. It’s a perfect way to deepen your appreciation for one of Portugal’s most iconic exports—and do so in a way that feels authentic and personal.

You can check availability for your dates here: