october 2020
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Our antennae perk up when we come across a quote, “serious” winemaker having some fun with a typically traditional wine or appellation. The great Port house of Niepoort was started by Dutch settlers in 1842, and made mostly fortified wines until 1997 when fifth generation Dirk emerged as an innovator and creator of new dry wines from the family’s estates. New approaches to marketing (funky labels etc.) and selling did not however sever Dirk’s commitment to traditional, classic winemaking. He was an early proponent of organic and biodynamic practices, which continue today across his holdings.
This wonderful red from the Douro River Valley is a blend of, deep breath: Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela and Tinto Cao…local varities that are usually used for Port production. Here they are fermented dry in stainless steel vats, with only 10% being aged in used oak casks. The result? A heady, complex red that is dark in character (think blackcurrant, black plum,dark red cherries) with plenty of mineral backbone and an open, refreshing countenance.
As we head into fall, consider this lovely red for all sorts of possibly cooler-weather(?) grub…slow-cooked pork shoulder, heartier pastas, strong cheeses, roast lamb, tagine etc.
Thanks for your continued support everyone. Stay safe out there!
This wonderful red from the Douro River Valley is a blend of, deep breath: Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela and Tinto Cao…local varities that are usually used for Port production. Here they are fermented dry in stainless steel vats, with only 10% being aged in used oak casks. The result? A heady, complex red that is dark in character (think blackcurrant, black plum,dark red cherries) with plenty of mineral backbone and an open, refreshing countenance.
As we head into fall, consider this lovely red for all sorts of possibly cooler-weather(?) grub…slow-cooked pork shoulder, heartier pastas, strong cheeses, roast lamb, tagine etc.
Thanks for your continued support everyone. Stay safe out there!
