6 bottle level         $29 (member price $26)
Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira, Touriga Nacional, Aragonez, Cabernet Sauvignon 14.5% ABV

In 1985, Esporão “Reserva“ was the first wine produced at their Alentejo estate (Herdade = Homestead), and remains their flagship 40 years later.  The entire property is designed with the environment and sustainability in mind.  This extends to their restaurant, which has a Michelin Star and a Green Michelin Star, a walking trail,  bike paths, olive oil mill and brewery … I want to visit this winery!  This Reserva was aged 12 months in American and French oak barrels (20% new).  All the varieties were vinified separately, blended, then rested in the bottle for 6 months.  Ripe/juicy attack of black fruit, herbal midpalate, anise and minerality on finish.  The wine has a heady 14.5% ABV, but comes across as elegant.  Classic Alentejo!

Food Pairing Suggestions:
This vibrant blend pairs perfectly with roast chicken with root vegetables, classic ratatouille, herbed leg of lamb with crispy potatoes and mint pistou, grilled flank steak with Chimichurri and thick-cut potatoes, winter beef stew, porterhouse steak with caramelized onions and peppers, braised lamb shoulder with fennel, slow smoked brisket BBQ with creamy macaroni, chicken or veal Marsala with mushrooms and pasta Bolognese.