Niepoort Vertente 2022

Niepoort was founded in 1842 and is now run by Dirk Niepoort, the fifth generation of the family, working the schist-terraced hillsides of the Douro. Vertente is a field-style blend of Tinta Amarela, Touriga Franca, Rufete and other indigenous varieties from old vineyards. The Douro's schist soils are poor and free-draining, forcing vines to root deep for water and mineral nutrition, which concentrates the fruit and carries a stony, earthy character into the wine. Hot days and cooler nights in the valley ripen the grapes fully while keeping acidity and aromatic freshness, and the modest 12.2 percent alcohol reflects an early, balanced pick. Niepoort keeps to traditional Portuguese methods here, and the wine ages twenty-two months in French oak, where slow oxygen exchange softens tannins and adds structure without dominating the fruit. It shows a deep ruby colour, with dark plum, red berries and cherry on the nose over black pepper, dried herbs and a mineral, earthy background. The palate is structured and savoury, with firm but ripe tannins and fresh acidity into a long finish. Serve at 17 degrees, decanted, with grilled or roast meats.