Niepoort Vertente 2020

A celebrated name on the Portuguese wine scene, the history of Niepoort spans five generations, tracing its roots as far back as 1842 and boasting a magnificent portfolio of both fortified and still wines. This week’s wine special is a field blend of ‘Port’ grapes but made in an approachable and easy drinking style. “Vertente” means “aspect” or “hillside” and most of the grapes come from old vineyards on the banks of the Pinhão river, where Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) make up the majority of the blend. The old vines contribute a unique balance between depth, concentration, fruit and complexity, and with almost two years maturation in French oak, the result is a very appealing and expressive Douro red, combining rich flavors with a linear elegance that defines Niepoort’s signature style, and a great introduction to his incredible range of ‘light’ wines.