Harvest Season in Portugal: Everything You Need to Know and Experience

Harvest Season in Portugal

Every year, between August and October, Portugal’s vineyards come alive with one of the most important traditions in the country, the grape harvest. More than just a time of winemaking, the harvest season is a cultural celebration where visitors are invited to step into the vineyards, pick grapes by hand, and even stomp them in traditional lagares. For wine lovers and travelers seeking authentic experiences, Portugal is one of the best times to visit.

In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the harvest season in Portugal, when it happens, what to expect, and where you can take part in unforgettable wine harvest experiences across the Douro, Minho, Lisbon, and Alentejo regions.

When is the Harvest Season in Portugal?

The exact timing of the harvest varies depending on the region and grape varieties. Generally:

• Douro Valley: late August to late September
• Lisbon Region: September
• Alentejo: late August to early October

Why Experience the Grape Harvest?

Participating in a harvest in Portugal means:

• Learning traditional winemaking methods directly from producers
• Walking through centuries-old vineyards
• Picking grapes alongside local teams
• Experiencing grape stomping in lagares
• Tasting fresh must (fermenting juice) and the wines from previous vintages
• Enjoying wine-paired meals surrounded by breathtaking landscapes

The Best Vineyards to Experience the Harvest in Portugal

Here are some of the top quintas and estates where you can take part in the harvest season:

Douro Valley
Quinta da Pacheca

Join a guided visit through the vineyards and winery, taste Douro and Port wines, and step into tradition by treading grapes in the lagares. Everything is prepared for your comfort, with shorts and cloakroom facilities provided.

Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo

A full-day harvest experience including grape-picking, winery visits, tastings of “first wines” and Douro classics, plus a gourmet 3-course lunch with wine pairing.

Quinta do Ventozelo

An authentic harvest day starting with grape-picking, a morning snack in the vineyards, transport in traditional Bedford and Jeep vehicles, wine tastings, and a regional Douro lunch at the Cantina de Ventozelo.

Quinta do Seixo 

Pick grapes in the vineyards, stomp them in the lagares, and enjoy a special tasting of fermenting must and premium Ports, followed by a harvest lunch at the SEIXO restaurant by chef Vasco Coelho Santos.

Minho
Quinta do Soalheiro

Discover the secrets of Alvarinho during the harvest season. Join the family of the Soalheiro Winegrowers Club in grape-picking, taste Alvarinho musts at different stages, and enjoy a traditional lunch paired with Soalheiro wines.

Lisbon Region
Quinta do Gradil

Near Lisbon, this historic estate once belonged to the Marquis of Pombal. During harvest, guests handpick grapes, stomp them traditionally, and finish with a picnic in the vineyards. A straw hat and a harvest t-shirt are included.

Alentejo
João Portugal Ramos

Take part in grape-picking and traditional pressing in marble lagares, visit the cellars, and enjoy a harvest lunch paired with the estate’s best wines.

Adega José de Sousa

Step into tradition at the historic Adega dos Potes, where wines are aged in clay amphorae. Enjoy guided visits, regional product tastings, and an authentic harvest experience in Alentejo.

Practical Tips for Joining the Harvest

• Book in advance: Harvest experiences are limited and fill up quickly.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: You’ll be walking through vineyards and possibly stomping grapes.
• Be ready to get involved: These are hands-on experiences, not just tours.

How to Book Your Harvest Experience

At Wine Tourism in Portugal, we bring together the very best harvest programs across the country, from the Douro Valley to Alentejo. Whether you’re looking for a half-day grape-picking adventure or a full-day immersion with wine-paired dining, we can help you plan the perfect experience.