Wine Concept

With a distinctly Alentejo profile, this wine aims to transmit the uniqueness of the Alentejo and the quality of Herdade do Esporão wines to more people. Balanced and gastronomic, it is an excellent choice for a variety of occasions and consumers.

Agriculture

Spring had lower temperatures and higher humidity than in previous years – ideal climatic conditions for fungal diseases in the vines, implying increased care to avoid mildew attacks. The cooler temperatures at this time of year provided a longer period of vegetative growth and, despite the heat felt since July, the beginning of the harvest took place about 10 days later than usual. The hot weather continued throughout the harvest, fruit condition was excellent. Despite the heat, sugar levels were normal and acidities a little lower than normal.

SOIL TYPE
Granite/schist rock with clay/loam soil

AVERAGE AGE OF VINES
16 years old

Grape Varieties

Touriga Nacional, Aragonez, Syrah, Trincadeira

Vinification / Maturation

Destemming, crushing, primary fermentation in stainless steel temperature controlled tanks, pressing, malolatic fermentation.

3 month ageing in stainless steel tanks.

More Information

Launched for the first time in 1992, its name comes from the monte located next to the Caridade reservoir, at Herdade do Esporão. At the time, the wine boasted the same origin and philosophy as Esporão Reserva but was created to reach more people and make daily wine consumption an experience.

Produced according to the region’s winegrowing tradition, the variety of grapes and vinification techniques demonstrate the character of the region from whence it comes: rich aromas, a smooth palate and an excellent gastronomic bent.

Made with grapes from throughout the region, it is the result of partnerships lasting over 15 years with suppliers from the different sub-regions, who use the same integrated production system as Esporão. These sustainable practices, which preclude the use of pesticides and herbicides, are crucial to soil quality and fertility, which provide the vineyard with natural protection that influences the quality of the wines.

Ever faithful to its roots, Monte Velho is the Alentejo in a glass, coming to represent a benchmark of the region in Portugal and the world over the years.

Wine Makers

David Baverstock and Sandra Alves

Colour

Clear, ruby.

Aroma

Red berry fruits and wild blue berries, subtle spicy notes.

Palate

Fresh, intense, solid structure, good texture.

Sizes

375 ml   ·   750 ml   ·   1,5 l   ·   3 l   ·   5 l

Bottling

From February 2017

Alcohol/Volume

13 %

Total Acidity

6 g/l

pH

3.6

Reducing Sugar / Baumé

1.9 g/l