These Monte Velho wines are from Portugal’s Esporão Group. Both are produced from blends of grapes from Portugal’s Alentejo region. This region, in eastern Portugal, covers approximately one-third of the country and is best known for its red wines. But, whites and rosés are rapid-growing segments.

Monte Velho (MON-tay VELL-yo), meaning “old mound,” references a high point on the property, capped by the ancient fort depicted on their labels.

2021 Monte Velho White ($12): This wine is a blend of Alentejo’s unique grapes: 40% Antão Vaz, 20% Perrum, and 40% Roupeiro. Antão Vaz, a full-bodied white, is known for its vibrant tropical fruit flavors while Roupeiro adds citrus notes and acidity. These two big-flavored grapes are softened by Perrum, a grape known as a low-sugar producer. This white blend is pale gold in color with aromas of tropical fruit, green apple and hints of citrus. On the palate it is soft with delicate flavors, medium acidity and a refreshing finish.

2021 Monte Velho Rosé ($12): This wine is the most recent addition to the Monte Velho wines, making its U.S. debut in spring 2022 with the 2021 vintage. It is produced from a combination of red grapes (Touriga Nacional, Aragonez, Syrah, Trincadeira and Tinta Caiada) and white (Arinto). This Monte Velho Rosé is a medium salmon color with aromas of strawberry and citrus notes. On the palate it has flavors of cherry and raspberry, good acidity and a light and refreshing finish. At 1 gm/l of residual sugar and 12.5% ABV, this is a dry wine yet it has sweet fruit flavors.

Both of these wines are certified vegan by the European Vegetarian Union. Being affordable and attainable, these wines are a great fit as Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Samples Provided by Esporão Group (via Creative Palate Communications)