UTAD Welcomes 43 International Oenology and Viticulture Students for Immersion in the Douro Region

| Vila Real, July 14, 2026 |

  • An international delegation representing nine nationalities across four continents.

  • Visit driven by UTAD’s active membership in the EU-GIFT European Alliance.

  • The itinerary featured the Vila Real Eco-Campus, the São Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint, and historic Douro estates.

The University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD) held the official reception for a delegation of 43 master’s and bachelor’s students in Oenology and Viticulture. Participating in a Summer School organized by their home universities, these students—coming from South Africa, the United States, Switzerland, and Brazil—brought a rich multicultural mix, representing French, Chinese, Swiss, Brazilian, American, Mexican, South African, and Lebanese backgrounds.

The official welcoming ceremony was chaired by UTAD Vice-Rector Carla Amaral, alongside researchers and professors Ana Barros and Paula Lopes. Beyond presenting the university’s academic structure, the session placed a strong emphasis on UTAD’s integration into the EU-GIFT Alliance. This landmark contact was established directly through the alliance’s international network, underscoring its crucial role in transforming higher education. Even in its early stages, EU-GIFT has proven to be a vital catalyst for academic cooperation, driving high-impact international mobility and attracting global talent to high-level higher education programs.

    Science, Landscape, and Viticultural Tradition

    The day’s itinerary offered a deep immersion in both academic excellence and the Douro territory:

    • UTAD Eco-Campus: A guided tour highlighting key facilities, including the experimental vineyard, the animal science sector, the Chapel, and the Kitchen Lab (Experimental Cooking Laboratory).
    • Douro Valley Vistas: A stop at the iconic São Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint allowed students to contemplate the UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
    • Fieldwork & Technical Expertise: Following lunch provided by the Summer School organization at Quinta da Laceira, the group focused on technical knowledge with visits to leading producers Quinta de Seara d’Ordens and Quinta do Vallado.
    • Closing Reception: The journey concluded along the historic Peso da Régua–Pinhão route, ending with an official dinner hosted by UTAD at Quinta do Carmo.

    The event was an outstanding success, drawing high praise from the international students and faculty for UTAD’s organization, hospitality, and top-tier scientific and cultural activities.