Esporão was founded in 1973 by José Roquette and Joaquim Bandeira,

They are one of the leading wine companies in Portugal and one of the largest organic wine producers.

They have  three wineries – Herdade do Esporão in Alentejo,

Quinta dos Murças in Douro and Quinta do Ameal in Vinho Verde –

In Alentejo, all of their vineyards are certified organic, as well as those at Quinta dos Murças, Douro. They own  623ha of organic vineyards – the biggest ownership in Portugal, representing about 18% of total organic production in the country.

We tasted a selection of their wines from their three regions, Vinho Verde, Duoro valley and Alentejo with a matched three course dinner in Frederick’s private room on Tuesday February 7th 2023. Hosted by Pedro Lopes Vieira  Sales Manager at Esporao Wines

Aperitif –

Quinta de Ameal Loureiro

 From the Lima sub-region of Vinho Verde, the birthplace of Loureiro, this vibrant wine really shows the huge potential for this eminently approachable variety. Reminiscent of lemon sherbets, zingy, fresh and lively, yet intense and balanced wine, that will evolve well over the next 15 years

Starter –

Smoked salmon with potato & beetroot salad
Frederick’s Waldorf salad

Monte Velho white

A blend of Antão Vaz, Roupeiro and Perrum from 18-years-old vineyards planted on granite, schist and clay soils. Fresh and balanced, with a firm body, citrus and white fruit characters and no oak.

Herdade do Esporão Reserva white

 An organic blend of Antão Vaz, Arinto and Roupeiro, fermented and matured for 6 months in a combination of tanks and new American and French oak barriques. The calling card for the range with an elegant, creamy palate, notes of peaches and nutmeg.

Main –

Coq au Vin, diced pancetta, mushrooms,
baby onions, mashed potato
Aubergine parmigiana, tomato & mixed leaf salad

Herdade do Esporão Reserva red

Esporão Reserva Red was the first wine launched in 1985 and it still represents the estate’s diverse winemaking history. A true Portuguese blend of native varieties that are fermented separately, then blended together and aged for 12 months in American and French oak barrels, with a further 8 months of ageing in bottle before release. Black fruits, nutty and black pepper notes intermingle on the rich and complex palate that doesn’t disappoint.

Quinta dos Murças Reserva red

This Reserva is from some of the oldest vineyards of the estate, located between 150m and 280m with a south and westerly exposure. Its special terroir gives the final wine its complexity and longevity. Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Sousão, Tinta Amarcela, Tinta Barroca and Tinta Roriz combined with 12 months in oak result in an intense, balanced beauty dominated by black fruits and spice

Dessert

Pear & almond tart, clotted cream

Quinta dos Murças Tawny port

 A wine with gravitas and history, from the first vertical vineyard planted in the Douro Valley in 1947. One hectare of vines is planted on schist soils at altitudes greater than 262m, with a southeast exposure. The highest expression of the estate terroir, characterized by great harmony and elegance, with fine mature tannins and balancing acidity, with a great ageing potential.