Photograph of a detail of Quinta do Penim. This is a property next to the village of Codorneiro that stands out on the hillside, where traces of the old public paths still remain, marked by walls and olive tree borders. The built part of the wine estate, where the owner's house, chapel and wine workshops are located, is surrounded by a leisure area that extends to the woods, composed of gardens of geometric design, with boxwood, camellias and exotic trees, orchard, water features and a resting area, accompanied by vine in trellis.
The vineyard preserves a post-phylloxera terraced area, where the schist used on the walls has quartz veins, giving the set different shades.
According to information by Manuel Monteiro (MONTEIRO, 1998: 152) we can date the terraces to the late 19th century, being Captain Sarmento the owner, who converted this property with great investments. The Captain is also at the origin of the construction of the recreational areas, which are unusual in Douro estates.
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.