Aveleda Douro Superior Vale D. Maria Vinhas do Sabor 2020
Aveleda S.A. · Douro, Portugal
At a glance
- Producer
- Aveleda S.A.
- Region
- Douro, Portugal
- Grape variety
- Red Blend (Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz)
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Fruity
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $18-28 USD
Tasting profile
Expressive red and black fruits (cherry, plum, blackberry), violets, subtle oak spice, minerality.
Evolution: Fruit softens, floral and mineral notes emerge, subtle earth and leather develop with age.
At peak: Best balance of fruit, floral notes, and mature structure between 2024 and 2026.
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium-high, balancing the fruit core
- Tannins
- Medium, ripe, and polished
- Alcohol
- 13.5% ABV (typical)
- Aging potential
- 5-8 years from vintage in good conditions
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2028 to 2045
- Optimal window
- 2025 to 2048
- Current status
- Ready to drink
- Current condition
- Fresh, vibrant fruit with developing secondary notes. Tannins integrating nicely.
The 2020 vintage currently displays vibrant fruit and freshness, with structure to evolve over the next 2-4 years, after which tertiary notes may overtake its lively core.
Food pairing
Grilled lamb, roast pork, hearty stews, aged Manchego or Portuguese cheeses.
Serving
- Decant
- Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins and is 5 years old, which suggests it can benefit from aeration to enhance its aromas and flavors.
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 8/10
Implementation of integrated pest management, reduced chemical inputs, water-saving irrigation, focus on native biodiversity, lighter recycled glass bottles.
Aveleda is a sustainability leader in Portugal, emphasizing responsible farming, ecosystem conservation, and resource efficiency. While not fully certified organic or biodynamic, the estate meets rigorous sustainability benchmarks through Sustainable Winegrowing Portugal and is transitioning to lighter packaging to reduce transport emissions. Their efforts significantly lessen the environmental impact relative to regional norms; however, overseas carbon footprint remains a factor for global markets.