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2018 Herdade Do Esporao Trincadeira Alentejo
92 DEC
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Review
This lovely mid-weight example of Trincadeira – hand-picked - was vinified and aged in concrete tanks, which gives fine expression to the leafy tobacco notes and allows the juicy red/black berry and currant fruit to shine. Hints of dried fig and tobacco pouch lend savoury intensity. Chalky tannins and persistent acidity accentuate its freshness. Thoughtful winemaking. Drinking Window 2020 - 2023. Decanter
Decanter | 92 DEC
Critic Reviews
This lovely mid-weight example of Trincadeira – hand-picked - was vinified and aged in concrete tanks, which gives fine expression to the leafy tobacco notes and allows the juicy red/black berry and currant fruit to shine. Hints of dried fig and tobacco pouch lend savoury intensity. Chalky tannins and persistent acidity accentuate its freshness. Thoughtful winemaking. Drinking Window 2020 - 2023.
Decanter | 92 DEC
Decanter | 92 DEC
Wine Details for 2018 Herdade Do Esporao Trincadeira Alentejo
| Type of Wine | Portugal Red |
|---|---|
| Varietal |
Trincadeira
: Portugal has a rich and colorful history of viticulture extending back 4,000 years. In that time the Iberian Peninsula has witnessed continual change in control from outside powers, but also a vast influence in the practice of winemaking. Today, Portugal is one of the largest producers of wine by volume. Port has, undoubtedly, become the country’s signature style and world renowned for its production of the fortified wine; however, the many indigenous grape varieties are flexible and can be used in many different fashions. Tinta Amarela is one such grape and is responsible for producing world class wines, from Port to dry and varietal to blended expressions. Although Tinta Amarela is the variety’s official name, it is more popularly known as Trincadeira under which it is marketed in numerous varietal dry red wines. The varietal directly hails from Portugal, though the exact time and place of origin is still undetermined (quite possibly Douro). It has played an instrumental role in winemaking along with Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz (more commonly known by its official name, Tempranillo) in the making of the nation’s key wine product: Port. It must also be recognized as producing fine varietal wines as well. The deep purple-skinned grapes grow in tightly compacted clusters, making it highly susceptible to rot and other vineyard diseases. This is of particular significance on Portugal’s Atlantic coast which gets broadsided by cold, wet ocean winds as soon as autumn arrives. The variety thrives in the hot, dry winemaking regions of Douro, Dao and Alentejo, where it is grown with much affection. Alentejo’s climate is largely hot and arid, enjoying 3,000 hours of sunshine annually and an average of 23 inches of rainfall (compared to 25 inches of which is seen in Napa Valley). Most of the region is marked by plains and rolling hills, with valleys and mountains making an appearance as well. The soils are more varied than anywhere else in Portugal and much of the soil quality is considered “poor” which is perfect for grape vines. The soil types found throughout the area include schist, pink marble, granite, limestone and a sub-layer of water-retaining clay. This terroir helps to add excellent acidity and robust flavors to the resulting wine. Dao has quality vineyards situated at altitudes between 500 to 1,500 feet above sea level giving the vines access to optimum sunshine and allowing them to maximize their photosynthesis during the day. It also increases diurnal temperature variation, helping the grapes cool down at night, which they must do to retain the acids so desirable in wine. Douro is the hottest of the three sub-regions producing dense and powerful wines. It possesses a unique mix of soil, topography and climate which cannot be replicated elsewhere. Winters are cold and summers extremely hot. Intricate systems of deep twisting valleys, sometimes narrowing to sheer-sided ravines or gorges. The ever present rock bed juts out of the surface in large dramatic outcrops and marks the land as rocky terrain. The terroir consists of predominately slate-like metamorphic rock known as schist. These major growing regions, though different, seem perfectly suited to the flexible and adaptable varietal. Tinta Amarela is almost exclusively planted in Portugal, with 9,250 hectares (22,850 acres) being cultivated throughout the country, with only 24 hectares (60 acres) planted outside the country. Assuming clement weather and a smooth growing season, Tinta Amarela, though difficult to cultivate, can be incredibly rewarding. Wines produced are of a deep coloration and cast a very impressive, dominating appearance in the glass. They tend to be full-bodied, rich, elegant and balanced with intense aromas of blackberries, black plum, herbs and flowers. It possesses excellent acidity and soft tannins with a flavor profile which includes raspberry, black fruits, herbs and pepper. In their youth, the wines offer herbaceous aromas often complimented by darker notes akin to black tea. With a little age, tangy blackberry flavors emerge. The variety has ample tannins and thus, the ability to age quite gracefully. |
| Country |
Portugal
: Viticulture has existed on the Iberian Peninsula (home to modern day Spain and Portugal) for thousands of years, dating as far back as 2000 BC. The country of Portugal, with its 250 native grape varieties, has a long and colorful history of viticulture and is renowned for its production of the world-famous fortified wines of Port and Madeira. Beyond these rich and intriguing styles, the country has become diversified, and is now being recognized for its refreshing whites of Vinho Verde, sparkling wines from Obidos and the warm reds from Douro and Dao. In the past few decades, Portugal has enjoyed somewhat of a revival in terms of viticulture and is becoming increasingly popular for its many wine styles. Portugal may not compare to neighboring Spain’s production rate, but in terms of quality, it can do more than hold a candle. Portugal’s production of Port is, without a doubt, its fame to claim and has brought global recognition; however Its recent renaissance and its incredible array of wine styles has helped to only bring more attention to the country’s wine industry. Its annual production of 600 million liters of wine from its 195,000 hectares under vine is an incredible feat for one of the smaller wine producing countries. Many of the key grape varieties cultivated in Portugal are considered native. Touriga Nacional, Trincadeira, Baga and Tinta Roriz lead the way and are the most popular and important grapes grown. Portugal’s temperate, predominately maritime climate and portfolio of terroirs is greatly conducive to vinification. Its many mountains, river valleys and limestone-rich coastal hills allows for a rich and diverse range of soils. The Atlantic influences the growing season which sees high levels of rainfall allowing for high yields. This can also be a detriment and an increased risk of fungal diseases. Coastal region winegrowers has have worked diligently to cultivated ventilated sites as well as high trellising methods to keep the grapes from developing bunch rot. The international wine market is becoming more cognizant of the many great wines coming from Portugal, from the reds of Douro and Dao to the red, white and rose from Vinho Verde, sparkling renditions from native varietals to the unprecedented and world-famous Port wines. International varieties (most of French origins) such as Syrah and Merlot have taken root in Portuguese soil. Despite the arrival of these varieties making a splash, and intrigue, Portugal’s long tradition of winemaking in the region has allowed winemakers to maintain a certain uniqueness in their wines. The Old Word nation of Portugal commands global respect and recognition for its many accomplishments and contributions to the world of wine. |
| Region |
Portugal
: This gorgeous region has been greatly underestimated in the past. Its natural virtues are now being transformed, enhanced and reinforced as Portugal undergoes a real winemaking revolution. Previously only known for Port, Madeira and the still white Vinho Verde, Portugal now offers a serious milieu of predominantly red, incredibly rich, dry, table wines from Dao and Douro. While the country doesn't have a terroir as diverse as some other regions, it is still vast and nuanced between the sandy, hilly coasts, mountains, and rich river valleys. Lots of rain in this maritime climate irrigates the abundant vintages that have to be protected from illness and rot, which seems to be no problem for Portugal, especially in recent years. The ambiance is perfect for some interesting native grapes that distinguish the region from the rest of the world. If you come across a superb Portuguese wine, read the label and don't see a single familiar word, this is why. Touriga Nacional is perhaps the most used grape in these red wines, featuring exquisite details of leather, delicate florals and spice. Portuguese wines often exhibit fantastic aging potential due to their strong tannic structure. Now is the perfect time to grab a bottle whether you plan to treat yourself immediately or hold for years to come. |
Overview
| Producer | Herdade Do Esporao |
|---|