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A wine for every occasion. With a balanced and gastronomic profile, it offers the best aromas and flavours of Alentejo grapes.
Monte Velho 2017
Mundus Vini – 85 Points
Monte Velho 2016
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles – 84 Points
After a dry and cold winter, a rainy spring followed, restoring the proper moisture levels in the soil to initiate the vegetative cycle. The fact that temperatures in the spring, and until mid-summer, were milder than in previous years, somewhat delayed the entire cycle, but enabled good plant development. At the beginning of August, a heat wave that lasted five consecutive days, with temperatures above 43 degrees and strong gusts of wind, caused severe damage to the varieties that are more sensitive to this type of weather, leading to production losses. However, most of our vineyards, where varieties better adapted to these conditions predominate, ripened slowly and regularly, ideal to preserve the freshness and aromatic intensity of the white wines, and texture, concentration and complexity of the red wines.
SOIL TYPE
Granite/schist origin with clay/loam structure.
VINEYARD AGE
17 years
Destemming, crushing, temperature controlled alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, pressing, malolactic fermentation, aged for at least 3 months in stainless steel tanks.
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.
David Baverstock and Sandra Alves
Clear appearance, ruby colour.
Red and wild berries, nicely enveloped in subtle notes of fresh spices.
Intense and rich, with a solid structure and long finish.