Records from as early as 1671 document wine production on what is now Quinta da Aveleda. For over 300 years the Guedes family has tended the land, developing beautiful gardens as well as vinho verde and other wines. Aveleda first bottled wine in 1870.

While the family no longer lives in the 17th-century house full-time, it is used for family events.

The gardens wind through a lush forest with follies, water features, and even a goat tower, with goats. A 200- year-old eucalyptus towers over the garden.

Roses, azaleas, rhododendrans, camelias, and other flowering trees paint streaks of color against the lush greens.

Aveleda uses only grapes native to Portugal in its wine production. It is one of the three major Portuguese labels, making a variety of wines including aguardent, a type of brandy.

The Quinta is located near Penafiel, about 40 km from Porto. Guided tours of the gardens and wine tastings are available. The beautiful peacock will greet you at the tasting room.