June 3rd – 10th 2012

PORTO – GAIA – DOURO – MADEIRA

Our FORTIFICATION TOUR combines the best of the Port region and the rugged charm and wood-aged wines from the island of Madeira. Madeira is located nearly 600 miles off the coast of North Africa in the Atlantic Ocean, an island that I like to refer to as the “Hawaii of the Atlantic”. Our guests have truly enjoyed their experiences when joining us to discover Portugal’s finest fortified wine regions. Steeped in tradition, both areas provide unsurpassed splendor in the vineyards and some of the most amazing wines on the planet. Whether this is your first time joining us or you’ve taken part in one of our tours in the past, we change up the venues we visit, as well as the wines and restaurants.

We provide unheralded bespoke excursions in which our guests spend time in Vila Nova de Gaia to gain a historical perspective and enjoy some outlandishly opulent Port tastings before heading up river. The Douro River Valley is a wine region which must be seen to be believed. The vineyards are situated on steep schistous slopes of up to 70 degrees and we visit some of the premier properties as well as some that are typically off-the-radar of most Port enthusiasts, while also enjoying authentic Duriense cuisine and DOC wines. We then head to the island of Madeira for hedonistic days and nights on the island, taking in the natural beauty, hospitality of our generous hosts and having the opportunity to taste some extremely rare vinous treats, some of which cannot be found elsewhere.

Our 2012 Fortification Tour includes everything except airfare:

• Renowned Port and Madeira expert Roy Hersh and Mario Ferreira personally guiding your entire trip
• 7 night’s accommodations at an impeccably chosen 5* hotel in Porto/Madeira; top 4* hotel in the Douro
• Meals include all breakfasts, lunches and dinners w/ exception of one lunch on your own
• Transfers to/from Porto International Airport & Funchal’s airport. All tips & taxes … no hidden costs
• Transportation throughout your stay with us in Northern Portugal and on the island of Madeira
• Inclusion of all Port, Douro wine & Madeira during our VIP tastings at each property that we visit
• Introduction to the key players within the Port & Madeira trade at their lodges, quintas & homes