Esporão Private Selection white 2020: challenging expectations about the classical Alentejo White profile 20/07/2022

Private Selection white is a single variety Semillon. Grown at Herdade dos Perdigões in deep, well drained, granite and clay soils, the Semillon grape has adapted well to the Alentejo climate. Private Selection white benefits from the growing ageing and maturity of its organic vineyard, along with the careful selection of barrels, all of which contribute to its identity, richness, texture and depth.

The north-eastern exposure of the block where Private Selection white comes from protects the vines from the scorching sunny hours. Veraíson weather conditions in 2020 allowed the fruit to ripen gradually, which permitted a selective harvest that aided focusing the expression and quality of the variety. Fermented and aged on the lees with batonnage,

in 500-litre used French oak barrels to enhance the texture and depth. The result is a rich, complex wine, both distinctive and elegant.

Six months in French oak barrels followed by another six months bottle ageing enhanced the wine’s character offering it a deep, complex profile.

With a label illustrated by artist Jorge Queiroz, Esporão Private Selection White 2020 reveals intense apricot and citrus aromas with hints of white pepper and fresh almond. White pulp fruit predominates with nuances of nutmeg. Long and persistent finish.