Still a fantastic wine from the Alentejo region of Portugal? We review the latest vintage of the Esporao Reserva Red.
A blend of 25% Alicante Bouschet, 25% Trincadeira, 20% Touriga Nacional, 15% Aragonez (Tempranillo) and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon from organically grown grapes in estate vineyards in Alentejo, Portugal. The wine was aged for 12 months in 20% new and 80% old American and French oak barrels plus at least another 6 months in bottle before release. It has just 2.2 g/L of residual sugar and is vegan friendly.
Sample submitted for review. The Esporao Reserva Red has an SRP of $23 and is available for as low as $16. It is imported by Now Wine Imports.
From the bottle:
Grapes grown at Esporao estate, from vineyards over 20 years old. Blend of Alentejo traditional grape varieties. Aged in oak barrel for 12 months.
Herdade do Esporao’s boundaries remain unchanged for more than 750 years. Since 1985, Esporao maintains its commitment to produce the finest wines that nature provides. Made with organic grapes. Original label artwork by Alexandre Conefrey.
Produced and Bottled by Esporao
14.0% Alcohol
Perhaps thanks to the Port production there, it seems that when we hear of wines from Portugal it is often those of the Douro Valley in the northern part of the country. Alentejo, in eastern Portugal, also produces some amazing wines and in particular red wine blends using a combination of indigenous and international varieties. It’s definitely a region whose wines you should explore.
The 2021 Esporao Reserva Red opens with a very pleasant and harmonious aroma of black cherry, spice, vanilla and hints of chocolate, licorice and mint.
Taking a sip reveals a balanced and elegant wine with dark berry fruit, spice and other flavors similar to the nose. It also features a very smooth mouthfeel.
It ends with a dry, long, slightly grippy finish and was just as good on day 2. We previously reviewed and loved the 2014, 2016 and 2018 vintages and once again this is a lovely blend although this one was not quite as good as the 2018.
Looking for more of The Best Red Blends under $25? Click the photo below to see all of our recommended wines in this category.
You can also find more of our favorite wines from Portugal here.
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