Niepoort Vertente 2022

Niepoort is a historic family run estate in the Douro Valley, founded in 1842 and now led by Dirk Niepoort, the fifth generation. Once renowned exclusively for Port, the winery expanded into dry table wines in 1990 and has since become synonymous with elegant, terroir driven reds. Vertente reflects the diversity of Niepoort’s vineyard holdings, drawing fruit from old vines on steep schist slopes in Quinta de Nápoles and on the terraces of the Pinhão River. Soils are predominantly schist with gravelly elements, giving structure and minerality. Niepoort practices sustainable viticulture across its estates, encouraging balanced growth and site expression.

The Niepoort Vertente 2022 is a classic Douro red blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Amarela, sourced from vines averaging 30-60 years old. Hand harvested with meticulous sorting, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel with a portion of whole clusters to preserve aromatic lift and freshness, then matured for around 20-22 months in French oak barrels following malolactic conversion. The wine shows ripe red and dark fruit, spice, graphite and herbal notes framed by balanced acidity and fine tannins. Drinking well now, it will continue to develop for several years. Pair with grilled lamb, braised beef or rich stews for a classic match.