THE WINE
Esporão Private Selection Red 2012 is a premium Alentejo wine representing the pinnacle of Herdade do Esporão's winemaking. Originally launched in 1987 as a selection of their best barrels, it evolved into a parcel selection from estate vineyards. The 2012 vintage reflects a low-yield, high- concentration year with ideal conditions for quality. This wine combines intensity and complexity with balanced structure, designed for long-term aging. Aged 18 months in French oak (30% new), it showcases the Alentejo terroir through meticulous viticulture and winemaking.
VARIETAL COMPOSITION
Alicante Bouschet (dominant), Aragonés (Tempranillo), Syrah
VINEYARD NOTES
The grapes for Esporão Private Selection Red 2012 come from meticulously managed estate vineyards in Alentejo, each chosen for its unique terroir. The Aragonés (Tempranillo) is sourced from the Canto do Zé Cruz vineyard (planted in 1980), where clay-loam soils with granite outcrops and old vines yield perfumed, vibrant fruit. The Syrah hails from the schist-rich, skeletal soils of the Telheiro vineyard (planted 1998), producing small, concentrated berries that lend power to the wine. Meanwhile, the Alicante Bouschet-the dominant variety-is grown in the Palmeiras vineyard (planted 1996) on clay hillsides, where careful bunch thinning ensures balanced yields and intense flavors.
TASTING NOTES
Deep ruby in color, the wine opens with aromas of blackberry, plum, and dark cherry, layered with spice, smoke, and subtle oak. The palate is rich and dense, with velvety tannins and vibrant acidity balancing the wine's opulent fruit core. Notes of licorice, cocoa, and Mediterranean herbs emerge, leading to a long, structured finish. While approachable now, its backbone ensures excellent aging potential.
