A Taste of Austria’s Fortified Elegance: The Tesoro VP Series by Esterházy

Fortified

Jan 7

Austria might not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of Port-style wines, but the Esterházy winery, with a noble lineage dating back to 1758, is rewriting that narrative with their remarkable Tesoro VP series. These fortified wines are handcrafted in Burgenland and inspired by traditional Vintage Port methods, yet firmly rooted in Austrian terroir. Let’s uncork three standout vintages that show the evolution and bold creativity of this house: the 2019 Tesoro VP, 2021 Tesoro VP, and the striking 2022 Tesoro VP White made from Pinot Blanc.

Showcasing the 3 different wines we have tried from Esterházy - 2 reds, one white, with
**Frank Schindler - now Director ProWein / ProSpirits / ProWein World**

🍷 2019 Tesoro VP – The Mature Classic

Vintage: 2019
Style: Red Fortified Wine
Alcohol: 19%
Profile: Rich, powerful, and balanced

The 2019 vintage is a mature, brooding wine that delivers complexity and elegance. On the nose, you’re greeted by dried cherries, blackcurrant compote, dark chocolate, and a whisper of tobacco. After four years, this wine is hitting a beautiful stride: the structure is polished, with fine tannins wrapping around a dense, fruit-driven core. Secondary notes of clove, fig, and toasted walnut emerge as it opens, echoing the classic Port style but with a cool-climate Austrian twist.

Pairing suggestion: Dark chocolate torte, blue cheese, or even grilled venison with berry jus.

🍷 2021 Tesoro VP – Youthful Power and Purity

Vintage: 2021
Style: Red Fortified Wine
Alcohol: 19%
Profile: Vibrant, fresh, structured

The 2021 Tesoro VP is still in its youth but already showing huge potential. Bursting with ripe forest fruits, plum, and hints of violet, it’s an energetic expression of the vintage. The wine is aged in large wooden barrels, preserving the purity of fruit and natural acidity that define this more recent bottling. There’s a subtle spice kick on the finish — think anise and white pepper — adding finesse to the bold style.

Cellaring tip: While delicious now with decanting, it will reward 5–10 years of aging.

Pairing suggestion: Hard cheeses like aged Comté or Manchego, or simply on its own after dinner.

🥂 2022 Tesoro VP White – A Revolutionary Take

Vintage: 2022
Style: White Fortified Wine (from Pinot Blanc)
Alcohol: 19%
Profile: Aromatic, layered, unconventional

Esterházy takes a bold leap with their 2022 Tesoro VP White, a fortified wine crafted from Pinot Blanc, a grape rarely associated with this style. The result is absolutely captivating. Aromas of pear compote, dried apricot, orange peel, and roasted almond lead into a palate that’s both silky and refreshingly mineral. The sweetness is lifted by a citrusy zip, making this white VP feel almost like a cross between a White Port and a dessert wine from Alsace.

EAN Code: 9003634117435

Pairing suggestion: Serve chilled as an aperitif, or pair with creamy cheeses, foie gras, or almond-based desserts.

Final Thoughts

With their Tesoro VP series, Esterházy proves that innovation and heritage can coexist beautifully. These wines aren't trying to imitate Portuguese Port, instead they carve out a unique space that honors the style while expressing the soul of Austria’s Burgenland region.

Whether you’re a fortified wine aficionado or simply a curious wine lover, the Tesoro series offers something rare: a fresh perspective on Port-style wines with unmistakable Austrian character.