Kopke

Kopke is a Portuguese port producer based in the Douro Valley, the demarcated region responsible for all authentic port wine production. Founded in 1638, Kopke holds the distinction of being the oldest port house still in operation, making it one of the most historically significant producers in the region. The house operates from Vila Nova de Gaia, the traditional aging center for port wines located across the Douro River from Porto.

The Douro Valley's unique terroir, characterized by schist soils and steep terraced vineyards carved into the hillsides, creates ideal conditions for the indigenous Portuguese grape varieties used in port production. Port wine production involves fortification with grape spirit during fermentation, which stops the fermentation process and preserves natural grape sugars, resulting in the characteristic sweetness and higher alcohol content. White port, made from indigenous white grape varieties, represents a lighter style within the port category and can range from dry to sweet depending on production methods.

Kopke's current range includes white port made from Portuguese white grape blends, showcasing the house's work with the traditional indigenous varieties of the Douro region. White ports typically utilize grapes such as Malvasia Fina, Viosinho, and Gouveio, among others, which are well-adapted to the region's challenging growing conditions.