Country: Portugal
Type: Still wine
WINE CONCEPT A wine for all occasions. With a balanced and gastronomic profile, it portrays the best bouquets and flavors of Alentejo grapes. AWARDS Monte Velho 2017 Mundus Vini – 85 Points Monte Velho 2016 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles – 84 Points AGRICULTURE The 2019 agricultural year recorded temperatures corresponding to the average for the last 20 years, while the recorded rainfall values were below the average values for the same period. In the spring and up until the beginning of the summer, temperatures were higher than in 2018, which led to a considerable advance in the phenology of the vine, translating into the anticipation of the harvest in about 2 weeks, compared to 2018. The summer registered lower temperatures in the veraison phase, promoting a constant and homogeneous ripening process, ideal conditions for raw material of excellent quality. SOIL TYPE Granitic/schistose nature, open clay structure. VINEYARDS AGE 18 years in average. GRAPE VARIETIES Touriga Nacional, Aragonez, Syrah, Trincadeira VINIFICATION / MATURATION Stemming, crushing, fermentation in stainless steel tanks with controlled temperatures, pressing, malolactic fermentation. 3 months minimum aging in stainless steel. 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 & Sandra Alves COLOUR Clear, ruby color. AROMA Red fruits and wild berries, wrapped in subtle notes of fresh spices. PALATE Intense and rich, with a solid structure and a lingering finish.