At a glance

Producer

Herdade do Esporão

Region

Alentejo, Portugal

Grape variety

Red Blend (typically Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez, Trincadeira, Cabernet Sauvignon)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$30

Tasting profile

Ripe dark fruit, plums, berries with notes of spice, vanilla and toasted oak

Evolution: Fruit will integrate further, tannins soften, tertiary notes of leather and earth gradually emerge

At peak: Complex layers of dark fruit, minerality, chocolate, and well-rounded oak influence

Structure

Acidity

Balanced acidity supporting aging

Tannins

Medium to firm, well integrated

Alcohol

14.0%-14.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2032

Optimal window

2025 to 2035

Current status

Young but approachable with cellaring options

Current condition

Drinks well now with decanting, better balance and complexity develops over the next 5-7 years

2022 is a solid vintage for Alentejo with balanced ripeness and acidity enabling good mid-term aging. The Reserva line from Esporão is designed for aging with classic Alentejo varietal blends, oak maturation, and structured tannins that soften over time.

Food pairing

Grilled red meat, game dishes, hearty stews, aged cheeses like Manchego or Pecorino

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow primary fruit aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Herdade do Esporão practices water conservation, renewable energy use (solar power), organic soil management, and reduced chemical inputs. The winery emphasizes biodiversity and habitat preservation within its estate.

Esporão is recognized for a strong commitment to sustainability with several initiatives to reduce environmental impact. Their sustainable vineyard management, energy efficiency, and community engagement contribute to a sustainability score of 8 out of 10, placing them among the more environmentally conscious Portuguese producers.