France connects with Douro

The acquisition of the port house of Quinta do Noval by French insurance company AXA makes an unusual connection between the Douro valley, home of port, and the classic wine regions of France.

There is no doubt about its new owner's commitment to the 145 hectare estate in the Upper Douro, which was carefully nurtured by its previous owner, the van Zeller family.

The new managing director, Christian Seely, says: "We have an enormous responsibility in owning and managing such a great historical estate and we are going to do everything we possibly can to maintain and improve it."

AXA is bringing to Quinta do Noval more than its vast financial resources as one of France's largest insurance groups. It also has an enviable record as a wine producer.

Plans include extensive replanting and the construction of a new winery and new blending and bottling plant, while the 19th century house on the estate is being renovated in the traditional Douro quinta style. The message seems to be: "Watch this quinta."