Mendes & Symington

The Symington Family Estates is one of the world’s leading producers of premium port, the leading vineyard owner in the Douro Valley and one of the top Portuguese wine producers.

They are a family of British and Portuguese origin that has lived and worked in Portugal since the 19th century. The family business – run by the 4th and 5th generation – is founded on a deep commitment to Portugal’s people, its lands and its wines. Today there are 10 family members working across the business, committed to producing the finest ports and wines and building on the achievements of the previous generations.

In 2023, the Symington family joined forces with the renowned winemaker Anselmo Mendes from the unique Vinho Verde region, to produce premium wines with the utmost quality and prestige. Anselmo has rightly earned his reputation as one of the most accomplished winemakers in Portugal and as a pioneer in the area.

Following Symington’s acquisition of the historic estate of Casa de Rodas in the prestigious Monção and Melgaço sub-region of the Vinho Verde DOC in northern Portugal, the Mendes and Symington families decided to create a joint venture with the aim of commercializing the wines produced on the property. The joint venture also included the acquisition of the renowned Vinho Verde brand, Contacto, produced by Anselmo Mendes, which has seen enormous success in Portugal and internationally, and both families believe it has great potential for further development.