Insider: José Right, Guide to the wineries of Portugal

Interview

José Right is one of our go-to insiders for clients who are looking for deeper insights at the wineries along the beautiful Douro River Valley in Portugal, as well as the other wine regions of the country. We asked him a few questions about his history working with vineyards, and about his favorite things to do in his native land.

Questions:

1) Tell me a little about your experience in winemaking/marketing and how it influenced you to become an expert tour guide.

I was born in a village on the shores of the Douro River, near Porto, where I saw my grandfather producing wines for family consumption and friends too–it’s a tradition that I have maintained to this day. Wines and their winemaking techniques have always been part of my life. More recently, I worked in one of the largest wine groups in Portugal (which has wineries in 5 of the 14 Portuguese wine regions) promoting the estates and enabling me to become a certified wine specialist. 

2) What is your favorite quinta/winery to visit in Portugal?

Since I have increasingly accompanied my clients over several days from north to south of Portugal, there are several wineries that I like to visit–but these are my favorites from the most popular wine regions: In the Douro Valley, it’s Quinta dos Frades and Quinta do Crastro. In the Vinho Verde region, must-visits are Quinta do Soalheiro and Edmundo Vale. And, finally in the Alentejo, both Herdade do Rocim and Honrado da Talha are top picks. All of these have lovely spaces for sampling wines of excellent quality. 

3) What’s your favorite ride you’ve taken a client on?

As I am completely in love with my work and country, it isn't easy to highlight just one tour. Still, I enjoy taking my clients to discover the Douro and Alentejo regions and definitely, the Sintra parish is a must-see too.

4) What would you advise anyone traveling to Portugal? 

Less is more! Don't turn your vacation into a marathon where you're always trying to see more and more. Portugal is a relatively small country, over a thousand years old, which means it has several points of historical interest. Still, it is also a place full of contrasting landscapes, ranging from mountains to vast plains, river and coastal beaches, and large cities to practically deserted villages. It's impossible to see it all. You must remember to reserve at least one free day in each major city or region that you visit–a day to wake up late and wander around the town, and discover something amazing that I've never even heard of. If that’s the case, don’t forget to share your discoveries with me!

Contact José at Portugal by Heart: phone +351 916 003 092, email tours@portugalbyheart.pt

Syllogi’s ‘Insiders’ interviews various subject matter experts who are travelling the globe, both personally and professionally, and share their favorite tips and recommendations.