As a local, exploring my own city - Porto - through the eyes and tastes of others is always a challenging experience, and I had... read moreAs a local, exploring my own city - Porto - through the eyes and tastes of others is always a challenging experience, and I had a great experience with Catavino - learning a lot of hidden facts and stories about our portuguese daily pleasures (tea, coffee, beer, wine...). 3 pleasant hours that pass without noticing, ending at the beautiful Wine Shop - The Lab, where Ryan, the owner, welcomes you with a smile and an assumed love for Portugal. I could only raise my glass and say Cheers to all these beautiful moments. Thank you Catavino. read less

We loved our trip to Portugal with catavino tours! Every detail was taken care of, communication was accurate but they did throw in some... read moreWe loved our trip to Portugal with catavino tours! Every detail was taken care of, communication was accurate but they did throw in some unexpected surprises, which were excellent! It is the best way to see the country, meet the people and experience things you wouldn't on your own. Ryan is an excellent guide! His love and passion for the country, the people, the food and wine is contagious! read less

Our Fall Harvest trip through the Douro valley led by Ryan Opaz and organized by the talented team at Catavino was truly a once in... read moreOur Fall Harvest trip through the Douro valley led by Ryan Opaz and organized by the talented team at Catavino was truly a once in a lifetime experience (well maybe twice)! This was an ongoing visual and sensory experience from start to finish with several “pinch yourself” moments along the way. Like most learning experiences I feel like I’ve retained a fraction of what I learned about the wines and cuisine or Portugal. I guess that’s a reason to do it again read less

Just spent a wonderful day in the Douro wine region with the Catavino team and a local winemaker. We had breathtaking views of a side... read moreJust spent a wonderful day in the Douro wine region with the Catavino team and a local winemaker. We had breathtaking views of a side of the Douro that most visitors don't get to see, knowledgeable explanations of the grapes, wines and processes and of course, delicious table and port wines, some poured straight from the barrel. The highlight of the day was the chance to join the Purple Foot Club by treading grapes in stone tanks. read less

Recently back from a Fall Harvest Wine & Food Tour in northern Portugal. Ryan and his team of angels of Catavino created an absolute exceptional... read moreRecently back from a Fall Harvest Wine & Food Tour in northern Portugal. Ryan and his team of angels of Catavino created an absolute exceptional itinerary for our group of 10 from Minnesota. From our first winery visit to grape stomping to our splendid view from our hotel in the Douro Valley, the Catavino team left no details behind. We were treated like esteemed guests everywhere we went and even treated like family is more like it! I'm going through withdrawal and plan to go back with the whole family in the near future. One of our guests summed it up like this during one of our lunches, "Patti, I feel like I've died and gone to heaven. Just when I think I had the best day ever, the next day is even better!" I highly recommend anyone, whether it's the two of you or a group, to look no further than Ryan and Catavino who will customize and personalize an itinerary that will surprise and delight you beyond your wildest dreams. Amen read less

My wife, son, daughter-in-law and I just returned from a memorable, two-week adventure in Spain and Portugal which was arranged by the wonderful team at... read moreMy wife, son, daughter-in-law and I just returned from a memorable, two-week adventure in Spain and Portugal which was arranged by the wonderful team at Catavino. There aren’t sufficient superlatives to describe these extraordinary individuals who made this trip so very special.Our primary contact, Janelle Norman, guided us with great creativity, attention to detail and sensitivity in addressing our focus on food, wine and culture. Her choices of extremely professional drivers, knowledgeable and engaging guides and delightful restaurants were outstanding. Her suggested day in the Douro Valley with Ryan Opaz was educational and great fun. Ryan was a superb and entertaining host who guided us through the tasting of aged port from even older barrels in a private quinta. Lunch at a small family restaurant and a cruise on the beautiful Douro River were wonderful.In Porto, one of our many highlights was a walking tour of this magical city with the vibrant and ever engaging Gabriella Opaz. Not to be missed! Her personality is infectious and seeing Porto through her eyes will guarantee your return.I must also mention that throughout our two weeks of travel, Janelle was never far away, during the day and well into the night, checking on our experiences and making modest adjustments in our plans where appropriate. Our travels were flawless.In summary, our family shared numerous experiences we’ll remember forever and we met many wonderful people along the way. However, it was the Catavino team that made it all possible and gave us a truly memorable journey. We’ll be back very soon! read less