The aroma reveals intense notes of wild berries and black plums, complemented by sweet spices and a toasted finish due to aging in barrels. With a dense and balanced flavor, where black fruit predominates, enriched with slight notes of jam. Attractive volume and long, persistent aftertaste.

Growing Season:
The 2022 agricultural year was a dry year. During the vegetative rest period (autumn-winter) and spring, there were mild temperatures and low precipitation values. In the vineyard, budbreak was early, as in the previous year, and moderate temperatures anticipated vegetative development. The very high temperatures and the lack of water in the summer contributed to distant maturation between the varieties, resulting in a precision harvest with a special focus on the expression of each variety.
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.

Vinification:
Mechanical harvesting, destemming and crushing, alcoholic fermentation at controlled temperature, pressing, malolactic fermentation. Minimum aging of 5 months in stainless steel.

Notes from the Vineyard:
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.