The Vineyards

The Vineyards

The 450 hectares of vineyard planted in Herdade do Esporão’s key agricultural areas adhere to the principles of integrated production, except those zones already certified (77 hectares) or those being converted (123 hectares) to organic production methods.

Herdade do Esporão has 194 grape varieties planted, 37 of which are in full production. These key varieties are the ones best suited to the Alentejo region, many of which have been used in the region for many years. Esporão was a pioneer in introducing certain grape varieties, which, over time, have become a trademark of the Alentejo, such as Touriga Nacional, Verdelho and Semillon, which lend greater identity and quality to Alentejo wines. Some of these vines can be classified as old vines, nearing 40 years of age.

The decisions taken by the viticulture team are supported by the use of specific agriculture and viticulture technologies, such as weather stations (which provide guidance regarding the treatment of disease), probes that measure soil humidity, (which are important support tools for irrigation), a totally automated irrigation system and monitoring of pests, using biotechnical material.