There’s something truly magical about immersing yourself in the rich history and flavors of a great winery. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Quinta do Gradil, one of our absolute favorite wineries in the region. Nestled in the rolling hills of Cadaval, just a short drive from EMCASA, this gem is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine wine, breathtaking landscapes, and an unforgettable tasting experience.

Steeped in History and Tradition
Quinta do Gradil boasts a history as rich as the wines it produces. In fact, the first known mention of the Quinta dates all the way back to 1492—a time when Portugal was at the height of its Age of Exploration. Over the centuries, the estate became known as a center of viticulture, with its winemaking traditions continuing to evolve under the ownership of notable historical figures, including the Marquis of Pombal in the 18th century.
Walking through the estate today, you can still feel the echoes of its noble past. From the beautifully preserved architecture to the vast vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see, Quinta do Gradil is a living testament to Portugal’s deep-rooted winemaking heritage. But despite its centuries-old history, the estate is anything but stuck in the past. The winery seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, using modern techniques to enhance the quality of its wines while maintaining the authenticity of its terroir.
A Special Memory: Harvesting at Quinta do Gradil
My recent visit was not my first experience at Quinta do Gradil. A few years ago, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a grape harvest at the estate. For any wine enthusiast, taking part in the harvest is an experience like no other. The excitement of carefully picking the ripe grapes straight from the vines, feeling the early morning sun on your skin, and knowing that these very grapes will soon be transformed into the wines we love—it’s truly a hands-on lesson in winemaking.
The event was a beautiful mix of teamwork, tradition, and celebration. After the picking was done, we celebrated with a well-deserved tasting, sharing stories and laughter over glasses of Quinta do Gradil’s finest wines. It was a memorable and rewarding experience, one that deepened my appreciation for the dedication and craftsmanship behind every bottle.
For those eager to experience the magic of the grape harvest, Quinta do Gradil offers this unique experience every September, allowing visitors to participate in this essential step of the winemaking process. If you ever get the chance to join a harvest event, I highly recommend it!

A Guided Tour to Remember
This time, my visit began with a warm welcome from the knowledgeable team, who took us on a fascinating guided tour of the estate. As we wandered through the vineyards, we learned about the different grape varieties grown here, from the elegant Arinto and Chardonnay to the bold Touriga Nacional and Syrah.
The tour continued into the impressive winery, where we saw firsthand the intricate process of winemaking. From the meticulous selection of grapes to fermentation and aging in barrels, every step is carefully executed to ensure the highest quality wines. It was fascinating to see how centuries of knowledge and craftsmanship come together to create the wines that have put Quinta do Gradil on the map.
A Tasting to Savor
Of course, no visit to a winery would be complete without indulging in a tasting experience! After our tour, we were led to a cozy, inviting tasting room where a selection of Quinta do Gradil’s finest wines awaited us, beautifully paired with a cheese and cold cuts board.
With each sip, we explored the unique characteristics of their wines. The crisp white wines were refreshing, bursting with citrus and floral notes, while the reds were rich and full-bodied, with layers of dark fruit, spice, and elegant tannins. We savored every moment, enjoying the perfect harmony between the wine and the carefully curated selection of local cheeses and cold cuts.

Bringing Quinta do Gradil to EMCASA
The love for Quinta do Gradil doesn’t stop at the vineyard! We are delighted to serve some of their finest wines in our honesty bar at EMCASA, allowing our guests to enjoy a taste of this exceptional winery during their stay. Whether you’re relaxing after a day of exploring or simply looking for the perfect glass to pair with a quiet evening, you can experience the flavors of Quinta to Gradil right here at EMCASA.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys a great glass of wine in a stunning setting, Quinta do Gradil is an experience not to be missed. From its over 500 years of history to its expertly crafted wines, this winery offers a journey through time and taste.
The combination of warm hospitality, insightful storytelling, and incredible flavors made our visit an unforgettable one. And for those who truly want to dive into the winemaking process, I can’t recommend the harvest experience in September enough—it’s a fantastic way to connect with the land, the people, and the wine itself.
So, during your next stay at EMCASA, be sure to set aside time for a visit to Quinta do Gradil in Cadaval. And when you return, don’t forget to continue your wine journey by sampling a glass (or two!) from our honesty bar. Trust us—you won’t regret it!
Cheers to great wines, unforgettable experiences, and the beauty of Portugal’s wine country!