Monte Branco XX

Monte Branco XX is a striking red, surprising for its aromatic freshness from the very first contact. The balance between the robustness of Alicante Bouschet and the elegant structure of Trincadeira is remarkable, creating a harmonious, enveloping wine.

On the palate it surprises with its youth, with vibrant acidity bringing energy and liveliness. The perfectly integrated oak plays a discreet supporting role, lifting the wine without masking its natural character.

Very fine black fruit takes centre stage, unfolding in polished layers that culminate in a long, classy finish. A red combining freshness, balance and sophistication: a refined, memorable choice.

The Wine Advocate
RP 94

Reviewed by: Luis Gutiérrez

The NV XX Anos is a red blend of the 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 vintages, created to celebrate the winery's 20th anniversary. It was made from the two grapes Luis Louro believes give the region's best reds: Alicante Bouschet (70%) and Trincadeira (30%). Fermentation was in lagar with indigenous yeasts, followed by four years in 2,200-litre oak foudres.

The wine is rich, complex, powerful and full of ‘nuances’, with notes of wild berries, aromatic herbs, pine nuts and a touch of resin. Alcohol is moderate (13.8%), with a low pH of 3.27 and notable acidity of 6.6 g/L. Medium to full-bodied, with refined tannins. 3,000 bottles and 150 magnums were produced. It was bottled in June 2023.

Luis Louro is the son of Miguel Louro of Quinta do Mouro. He founded Adega Monte Branco in 2004 in Estremoz, after two years of buying land, planting and buying vineyards. He uses no herbicides and pays more and more attention to native grapes. He farms 28 hectares in five plots, all in Estremoz, the oldest planted in 1993.