Monday, November 10, 2014

Quinta da Avessada

First, let me say that Mateus Palace (actually, that means elegant estate, not palace as Americans think of them) was indeed beautiful and photos will follow, but where we went next was the highlight of the trip.

En route to Q.ta da Avessada, two of the three busses got stopped for a medieval parade through a village. Photos later. The town was celebrating 500 years since getting their freedom from the king. We could afford the delay for that grand occasion, that is for sure!

These three guys greeted us with a musical welcome outside, where we sampled a muscatel aperitif before beginning our tour.




We were thoroughly entertained by one of the owners (think the English Mr. Bean). He was quite the thespian as he shared details of the local vineyards, and the music and storytelling continued on during dinner inside the lovely building that housed the shop, and two beautiful dining areas. They only cater special events; not a regular restaurant, but the food and service were first rate.

It is definitely a family run vineyard, producing about 40 million bottles a year. That's a lotta grapes! The cute drummer (above) is a brother, and mom and dad were also there and introduced to us. We all felt like family by then and hated to leave.

Lunch today will be in a convent, so the adventure continues. Come along with us!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

4 comments:

Haley D. said...

You are having some wonderful experiences! Keep the updates coming. We want to see a sideshow when you get home. Love & miss you both!

Barb said...

I know you must be taking a ton of photos so it must be hard to choose which one to post! Looking forward to seeing more when you return!

Carry on then! big hugs xoxo

Joy said...

From a vineyard to a convent - you do eat in some fascinating places!

Sandee said...

I can't wait to see all the pictures, but we sure don't want to rush you through your trip. Enjoy as you are enjoying.

Have a fabulous day honey. Big hugs. :)