Esporão Alicante Bouschet

RED 2015 • DOC ALENTEJO

Wine Concept

A red grape variety of French origin, introduced in Alentejo in the 19th century. It produces concentrated, full-bodied wines with good ageing potential.
This wine reflects the expression of Alicante Bouschet from three different origins in a very good vintage year for this grape. It combines the intensity, texture, and concentration of the Reguengos de Monsaraz sub-region with the vitality of the altitude of Portalegre.

Harvest Year

2015 presented ideal conditions for this grape variety. A dry winter followed by above-average temperatures in spring and summer gave rise to an early harvest. Although temperatures remained high, there were no extreme heat waves, and the dry conditions were excellent for fruit quality, producing wines with intense, persistent, aromatic fruit.

Viticulture

Herdade do Esporão: Andorinhos Vineyard – Schist soils with sandy loam texture. Vines over 15 years old.
Herdade dos Perdigões: Palmeiras Vineyard – Granite soils with clay texture, deep dark soils with good drainage. Vines over 25 years old.
Propriedade dos Lavradores: Machuguinho Vineyard – Located at 400m altitude, granite soils with sandy texture. Vines over 15 years old.

Grape Varieties

Alicante Bouschet

Vinification

Hand-picked and vinified in small concrete tanks.

Technical Information

Alcohol / Volume: 14.5%
Total Acidity: 6.6 g/l
pH: 3.54
Residual Sugar: 3.3 g/l

Available Formats

750 ml and 1500 ml

Winemakers’ Notes

David Baverstock and Sandra Alves

Colour

Deep, concentrated colour.

Aroma

Complex varietal aromas of black plum, dark chocolate, and subtle leather notes.

Palate

Classic tannic structure complemented by intense fruit and a long, spicy finish.

Awards & Reviews

Wine Enthusiast
93 pts | 2013 Cellar Selection
92 pts | 2012
91 pts | 2009