Espera - 2018 - Castelão Tinto

Espera, a small family-run winery in Lisbon's Alcobaça region, is a project built on patience. Founded in 2014 by Rodrigo Martins, Espera (meaning "to wait" in Portuguese) embodies this philosophy in every winemaking process step. With just 3 hectares of vines, the winery focuses on quality over quantity, drawing inspiration from the region's rich history—namely, the legacy left by the Cistercian monks who once cultivated these lands.

Espera embraces sustainable practices, adhering to organic and biodynamic principles. This means minimal intervention in the vineyard, allowing nature to take its course. The grapes are indigenous varieties, perfectly suited to the Alcobaça's unique terroir. Clay-limestone soils and eastern exposure contribute to the wines' characteristic freshness and minerality.

The focus on minimal intervention extends beyond the vineyard. Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo spontaneous fermentation, ensuring a pure expression of the fruit and the land. Espera doesn't rush the process; the wines are only released after careful consideration, ensuring they reach their full potential before gracing your table. This dedication to quality and respect for tradition positions Espera Wines as a unique producer in the Alcobaça region.