The Story Taylor’s is one of the oldest of the founding Port houses. The history of the firm is in many ways the history of the Port trade itself. Since its foundation in 1692, the company has remained independent. Now well into its fourth century, it has thrived and prospered, establishing itself as one of the world’s most respected historic wine houses. This has been achieved through the perseverance, pioneering spirit and continuity of purpose of successive generations of family involvement.
Based in Oporto and the Douro Valley the company is closely involved in all stages of the production of its Ports, from the planting of the vineyard and the cultivation of the grapes to the making, ageing, blending and bottling of the wines. The family’s commitment to the future of Port is demonstrated in its single minded dedication to the highest standards in Port production, its continued investment in all aspects of the firm’s operations and its determination to preserve the unique environment of the Douro Valley through the promotion of sustainable and responsible viticulture.
David Guimaraens - Technical Director & Head Winemaker
Since 1991 David has played a leading role in the production of the group’s wines and in the development of its wineries and vineyards. As Technical Director and head wine maker of The Fladgate Partnership he is responsible for the group’s extensive wine inventories. David also leads the team responsible for wine making in the group’s wineries and on the Taylor Fladgate, Fonseca and Croft estates.
After completing his schooling in Portugal and England, David spent time gaining hands-on wine making experience in Australia, California and Oregon before undertaking formal education in œnology at Roseworthy Agricultural College in South Australia. After graduating he remained in Australia to gain additional experience before returning to Portugal in 1990 to join the Taylor Fladgate and Fonseca wine making teams.
David has a number of extraordinary wines to his credit and is regarded as one of the most gifted wine makers in the Port industry.
