Espadeiro
The Sword Carrier of Vinho Verde
Espadeiro is grown in Rías Baixas, Galicia and Spain.
- Tastes of
- red fruits, floral, light tannins and fresh
- Goes with
- grilled octopus, light seafood and galician cuisine
The story
Espadeiro makes some of Portugal's best rosés—bright, aromatic, with wild strawberry character. The grape grows mainly in the Vinho Verde region, where it's increasingly bottled solo rather than blended. The name means 'sword bearer.'
Insider story
Espadeiro rosé is Portugal's secret pink wine.
The grape captures Vinho Verde's freshness perfectly.
Anselmo Mendes championed it.
Technical deep dive
Light-bodied rosé (or light red).
Wild strawberry, citrus, floral.
High acidity.
Low alcohol.
Best very fresh.
Industry secrets
Espadeiro is the grape behind Portugal's best rosés.
The aromatic intensity rivals Provence.
Still underpriced.
For collectors
Investment grade C
- Auction records
- No auction market
- Blue-chip producers
-
- Anselmo Mendes
- Quinta de Soalheiro
- Quinta do Ameal
- Value picks
- Vinho Verde Espadeiro ($12-20)
- Price trend
- Stable. Rosé demand helps.
- Collector’s tip
- Drink fresh. The perfect summer wine.