So here’s a film of foot treading at Quinta do Vesuvio, one of the Symington’s properties in the Douro. It’s amazing to think that many of the top Port wines are still made in this ancient fashion. Port grapes are loaded into the lagar after being picked during the day, and are then trodden for three or four hours in the evening.
Foot treading in the lagar is important for Port, because lots of extraction is needed in only a short time (the grapes typically ferment for just two days before the addition of spirit), but this extraction must be gentle. The human foot is pretty good at this.
You might be able to spot Chris Losh, Emily O’Hare, Patricia Langton, Richard Woodard and Annie Limm if you look carefully enough (and know these individuals). I filmed for a few minutes, but then joined in.
4 Comments on Video: foot treading grapes in the Douro
What a fabulous video Jamie – such fun. I was in Douro in April last year, very different looking at the lagars then!
Best wishes from a warm and sunny Cape Town.
Michael
Great video Jamie and looks like you had a lot of fun there!
That looks like SO much fun! Great to see there are still traditional methods around.
Hello Jamie!
I was in the vineyards of the Douro, in Quinta de Vargellas and the making of the wine is very much like the video you’ve shown…it a had a piano player back then but playing traditional songs…I worked there for 3 days and i can say that it’s tough….