HERDADE DO ESPORAO Reserva Tinto - Alentejo 2021 MAGNUM - VEG/VGN/ORG

Description

IN BRIEF
Herdade do Esporão Reserva Tinto Alentejo is a prestigious red wine with a significant history, being the first wine produced by Esporão in 1985. Exclusively crafted from grapes sourced from the estate, it showcases the unique character of its terroir. The winery employs integrated production methods that promote sustainable agriculture, enhancing grape quality while committing to environmental stewardship. The grapes are hand-picked and vinified in small, temperature-controlled vats for precise fermentation management. Aged for 12 months in a mix of American and French oak barrels, the wine presents an intense ruby red colour. The nose reveals black fruit jam and warm spices, while the palate is complex with dark chocolate flavours and ripe tannins, resulting in a persistent finish. Rated 92 points by The Wine Advocate, this wine is ideal for special occasions.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Herdade do Esporão Reserva Tinto Alentejo is a prestigious red wine that holds a significant place in the estate's history, being the first wine produced by Esporão in 1985. This classic wine is crafted exclusively from grapes sourced from Herdade do Esporão, embodying the unique character and consistency that the terroir offers.

The vineyard practices at Esporão employ integrated production methods, focusing on the rationalisation of natural resources and the use of natural regulation to promote sustainable agriculture. This approach not only enhances the quality of the grapes but also reflects the winery's commitment to environmental stewardship. The grapes for this Reserva Tinto are hand-picked, ensuring only the best fruit is selected for vinification.

The wine is vinified in small, temperature-controlled vats, allowing for precise management of fermentation. Following fermentation, it is aged for 12 months in a combination of American and French oak barrels, which impart additional complexity and depth to the final product.

In appearance, the Reserva Tinto showcases an intense ruby red colour, indicative of its richness. On the nose, it reveals an enticing bouquet of black fruit jam, complemented by warm spices such as black pepper and cloves, along with nuanced notes of coffee berries and cigars. This aromatic complexity sets the stage for a delightful tasting experience.

On the palate, the Herdade do Esporão Reserva Tinto is complex and layered, with flavours of dark chocolate and spices harmoniously integrated. The wine's structure is supported by ripe tannins, leading to a persistent finish that lingers beautifully.

This wine is truly a special choice for noteworthy occasions, combining a love for wine with a passion for art, as evidenced by the reproduction of original artworks on its labels.

Overall, Herdade do Esporão Reserva Tinto Alentejo is a testament to the winery's dedication to quality and craftsmanship, offering a sophisticated and memorable experience that reflects the vibrant character of the Alentejo region.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 92 points
Reviewed by: Luis Gutiérrez
Drink Date: 2026 - 2033
The 2022 Reserva Tinto was produced with a multi-grape blend of Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira, Touriga Nacional, Aragonês and Cabernet Sauvignon from granite and schist soils that fermented in stainless steel, concrete vats and marble lagar, with malolactic in stainless steel, and matured in French and American oak barrels, 20% of them new, for 12 months. It has a serious nose that is Mediterranean, spicy and smoky, with notes of dry hay and straw, ripe fruit and a hint of iron. It's medium- to full-bodied, with abundant tannins and some oak flavors. It comes in at 14% alcohol, with a pH of 3.61, finishing very dry. Wait a bit. 500,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in April 2024.

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ABOUT HERDADE DO ESPORAO
Herdade do Esporão is a prominent winery located in the Alentejo region of Portugal, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability in winemaking. Established in 1973, the estate spans over 1,000 hectares, with 250 hectares dedicated to vineyards. The winery has gained significant acclaim for producing a diverse range of wines, including reds, whites, and olive oils.

The philosophy of Herdade do Esporão revolves around a deep respect for the environment and the exceptional attributes of the Alentejo terroir. The estate practices sustainable viticulture, focusing on biodiversity and the natural ecosystem to cultivate grapes without the use of synthetic chemicals. This dedication to organic farming has allowed the winery to produce high-quality wines that genuinely reflect the character of the land.

Herdade do Esporão is particularly known for its robust red wines, made primarily from indigenous Portuguese grape varieties such as Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Alicante Bouschet. Their white wines, often crafted from grapes like Antão Vaz and Verdelho, are celebrated for their freshness and vibrant character. The estate’s flagship wine, Esporão Reserva, is a blended red wine that consistently receives accolades for its depth and complexity.

In addition to winemaking, Herdade do Esporão is deeply involved in promoting the region's culture and gastronomy. The winery offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the scenic vineyards, modern winery facilities, and local culinary delicacies. The commitment to education and community engagement has made Herdade do Esporão a vital part of the Alentejo wine scene.

Leadership at Herdade do Esporão includes experienced winemakers and agricultural experts who guide the winery's direction. Their approach combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations, ensuring a balance of heritage and contemporary practices. Over the years, the winery has built a solid reputation, both nationally and internationally, for its high-quality wines and sustainable practices.

With an unwavering pursuit of excellence and a passion for the land, Herdade do Esporão continues to be a leading force in the Portuguese wine industry, promising unique experiences in every bottle they produce.