The Pombaline Vindouro Festival kicks off on Friday in São João da Pesqueira, in the district of Viseu, for three days celebrating the wine, culture, history, and heritage of the Douro. The event, organized by the City Council, transforms the town center into a grand stage dedicated to the world's oldest demarcated and regulated wine region.
The event features hundreds of Douro and Porto wine producers, who will be available in a hall on Praça do Marquês for tastings and direct contact with visitors. This year's novelty is an area dedicated to the region's sparkling wines, reinforcing the diversity of the Duriense wine offering. The program includes the VII Wine Competition "Douro em Prova", wine talks hosted by winemaker Raquel Sousa, and live cooking demonstrations.
The historical and cultural dimension is present with historical reenactments, performances with costumed extras, and animations that recreate the 18th-century Pombaline period. The highlight is the traditional Pombaline Dinner, with culinary signature by Michelin-starred chef Marlene Vieira, as well as the Period Market, fire shows, and the Pombaline Procession.
Vindouro is expected to have the presence of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and the Minister of Agriculture and the Sea, José Manuel Fernandes, at the opening ceremony. The event was recently distinguished with the "National Event of the Year" award by the Association of Portuguese Wine Municipalities. The musical program includes performances by Rui Veloso, Carolina Deslandes, and Richie Campbell.