Taylor’s Port, under The Fladgate Partnership, has ventured further into table wine production with a notable acquisition in the Douro region, revealed exclusively by db.
Adrian Bridge, CEO of The Fladgate Partnership, confirmed the acquisition, marking their first vineyard purchase in Douro dedicated to table wine production. The acquisition includes 53 hectares of vineyards, a winery, extensive storage facilities, a bottling line, a 16-room boutique hotel, and a restaurant at Quinta do Portal. Bridge emphasized that these assets are strategically close to their existing 200-hectare property in Vale de Mendiz, enhancing their capabilities in table wine production while maintaining their focus on producing exceptional Port wines.
Previously hesitant about entering table wine production in Douro due to their Port grape needs, Bridge justified this move by ensuring that the Portal vineyards will exclusively supply grapes for table wines, allowing their existing properties to concentrate on Port production.
Last year, The Fladgate Partnership acquired Ideal Drinks, expanding their presence in major Portuguese wine regions but excluding Douro. With the addition of Quinta do Portal, they now integrate Douro DOC wines into their portfolio. Bridge highlighted the suitability of Portal’s vineyards for high-quality table wines, benefiting from consultant winemaker Pascal Chatonnet, coincidentally shared with Ideal Drinks.
Looking ahead, The Fladgate Partnership plans significant investments in modernizing Portal’s facilities to enhance production efficiency for both wines and Port from Vale de Mendiz vineyards. Bridge underscored the strategic location of Portal near Celerios village, a short drive from Porto, ideal for logistical and tourism purposes.
As they prepare to launch Douro wines alongside their existing offerings from Minho, Dão, and Bairrada regions, Bridge affirmed their commitment to expanding vineyard holdings despite challenges posed by Douro’s complex land laws and numerous small growers.
In conclusion, Taylor’s Port’s latest acquisition underscores their strategic pivot towards expanding their table wine business, solidifying their foothold in Douro while continuing to innovate in the global wine market.
Source: The Drinks Business