At the Cockburn’s Caves – a historic Port wine house, owned by the Symington family – everything is set for sunny days. To welcome warm evenings and socializing, the patio, renovated last year, presents a new selection of snacks, accompanied by the usual cocktails and wine catalog, which can already be enjoyed. Cockburn’s Caves offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the legacy and history of the Symington family and the wines aged there, as well as to discover the largest Port wine aging warehouse in the historic area of Vila Nova de Gaia, where thousands of barrels, pipes, and vats are kept. Visitors can also explore the different brand references through wine tastings, which can now be held in the tasting room or outdoors.

The new snack menu, which includes suggestions ranging from €2 to €15, features regional products, the result of partnerships with national producers from the Northern region. A assorted plate of Porco Bísaro pork, a selection of cheeses and jam, or puff pastries are some of the menu options, which also include lighter snacks such as potato chips or a bowl of almonds. For those who enjoy canned foods, it is possible to choose from tuna or cod pâté, sardines in olive oil, and tuna with black-eyed peas. And because snacks can go beyond animal-origin products, the menu includes options such as vegan pâté or vegetarian turnovers. In addition to the star product of the venue, olive oil can also be enjoyed with a tasting accompanied by bread.

In the Cockburn’s patio, which is open to Cave visitors and to all who simply seek a place to socialize and unwind on the hottest days, refreshments are also available, such as Porto Tonic cocktails, Port & Lemon, or Port & Ginger. The space also suggests tasting an ice cream made from one of Cockburn’s most recognized wines, the Special Reserve, with an option of children’s ice cream so that even the little ones are not left out. Chocolate bonbons and custard tarts could not be missing to complete the selection of ideal snacks for a late afternoon of socializing. Furthermore, wine by the glass options are available, including a wide selection of Cockburn’s wines, Altano Reserva Branco, and Pombal do Vesúvio Tinto.

Visits to Cockburn’s Caves last 1.5 hours and always culminate in a wine tasting, with six options available (starting from €22). Visits can take place from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. until October 31st. Prior reservation must be made through the website (www.cockburns.com). Tastings at the Caves are available from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and the store is open from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 pm.