References to Quinta do Crasto date as far back
as the early seventeenth century, long before the Douro became the
world's first demarcated wine region in 1756. A date on the main
gate to the property reads 1615 but its Roman ruins suggest earlier
viticultural activity. The earliest terraces to be carved from these
steep, schistous hillsides produced cereals rather than wine. Vines
were relegated to secondary status growing from holes in the
retaining terrace walls known as “pilheiros”, examples of which can
still be seen at Crasto. Quinta do Crasto was included in the first
“feitoria”, the register of properties producing wines of the finest
quality. A sturdy granite pillar dated 1758 marking the geographical
boundary of the “feitoria” can be seen at the Quinta. For years, the
vineyard, owned by the Roquette family, sold its grapes to A.A.
Ferreira until a revision in shipping laws made it possible for
Quinta do Crasto to ship its own Port. Located in the heart of the
Cima Corgo, mid-way between Régua and Pinhão, Quinta do Crasto is
officially classified as an 100% 'A' grade vineyard property.
office (206)
332-1995