A Rainy Day in Porto: Discovering Sandeman’s Cellars and the Magic of White Port

There’s something undeniably romantic about Porto in the rain, especially when you’re looking across the Douro River at the historic centre. My friend and I visited the Sandeman wine cellar in early December, with the city shrouded in a constant drizzle. The grey sky only added to the charm as we made our way to one of the city’s most famous wine cellars—Sandeman.

From the moment we stepped inside, it was as though the weather outside didn’t matter anymore. The warm atmosphere of the cellar, combined with the rich scent of oak barrels, promised an experience worth remembering.

Porto – A Journey Through History

The guided tour was fascinating, filled with stories about the Sandeman brand and its centuries-old heritage. The dimly lit cellar, stacked with ageing barrels, created an almost mystical atmosphere. As we wandered through, learning about the art of port-making, I found myself transported back in time. It was a perfect escape from the relentless rain outside.

But the real highlight? The wine tasting.

A Taste of Tradition: Ruby and White Port

When it came time for the tasting, I was expecting the classic ruby port. What I didn’t expect was the introduction of a white port, something I hadn’t even known existed before that day.

The ruby port was everything you’d expect—bold, rich, and full of deep berry flavors. It’s the kind of wine that warms you from the inside, perfect for a rainy afternoon in Porto. But the white port? That was the real surprise for me.

I had no idea white port even existed, let alone that it could be so delicious. Sweet and aromatic, with notes of honey and citrus, it was like discovering a hidden gem in the world of wine. I found myself savoring every drop, wondering how I had missed out on this for so long.

Reflecting on the Experience

What struck me most about the visit to Sandeman wasn’t just the impressive history or even the wines themselves (though they were incredible). It was the way the experience connected me to the place. As we sat, sipping our port and looking out toward the rain-soaked city of Porto, I felt a deep sense of appreciation—not just for the wine, but for the entire journey that had brought me there.

Despite the non-stop rain, the visit was one of the highlights of my time in Porto. It’s funny how sometimes, the unexpected—like a rainy day or the discovery of white port—can end up being the most memorable parts of a trip.