Real Companhia Velha was founded on September 10, 1756 by Royal Charter of King D. Jose I, under the auspices of his Prime Minister, Sebastiao Jose de Carvalho e Melo, the Count of Oeiras and Marquis of Pombal. It is the oldest and most emblematic wine company in Portugal. The Company was entrusted with the task of “sustaining the cultivation of the vines, conserving their natural production and purity, towards a benefit of Agriculture, Trade and Public Health”. Since its inception, Real Companhia Velha has been faithful to its old traditions by offering the finest Ports.
In 1960, Manuel da Silva Reis acquired the majority of the Company and assumes leadership. For the next 15 years, Real Companhia Velha experiences its largest period of expansion including moving its headquarters. They renovated its facilities and the modernized its vinification equipment, a rigorous control in the production, treating and conservation of its wines and the expansion of business activity. By 1986, sales in the national and overseas market reflect an 18% market share.
Today, Real Companhia Velha is lead by Manuel’s children, Manuel, Pedro, and Raquel. The Company owns some of the Douro’s finest Quintas, located in the very best areas of the Region. Red Ports are produced from parcels planted at Quinta das Carvalhas, Aciprestes and Síbio. The Old Vines located at Quinta das Carvalhas are the origin of our Premium Ports such as Vintages and Colheitas. History has left Real Companhia Velha with a record of an incredible story and a glorious past. The Company holds the desire to maintain the highest standard of quality in their wines and the confidence that their rigorous and visionary philosophy will continue well into the future.
