Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e Porto

The IVDP, or Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e Porto, is the regulatory body for the Douro and Port wine industries. Founded in 1933, it's based in Portugal and operates under the oversight of the Portuguese Ministry of Agriculture.

The IVDP is responsible for regulating the production, quality control, and protection of the Douro and Port wine regions. This includes setting rules for viticulture practices, wine production, and labeling, as well as ensuring that these rules are followed. The IVDP also manages the certification of Douro and Port wines and promotes these wines at home and abroad.

Roles of IVDP

One of the key roles of the IVDP is to protect the "Douro" and "Port" geographical indications, ensuring that only wines produced in the Douro region according to the established rules can carry these names. This protects the reputation of the Douro and Port wines and ensures that consumers receive a product of guaranteed origin and quality.Tawny Ports are typically a blend of wines from several vintages. The "10-year-old" indication on the label refers not to the age of the wine but to the average age of the wines in the blend. This wine originates from the renowned Port wine region of the Douro Valley in Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its stunning terraced vineyards and viticulture history dating back 2,000 years.

Unique Grapes

Several grape varieties contribute to the unique profile of a 10-year-old Tawny Port. Most commonly, you'll find Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão. These indigenous grape varieties, adapted to the harsh climate and rugged terrain of the Douro Valley, impart an unparalleled depth of flavor and complexity to the wine.