Niepoort

The beginning of a Portuguese (r)evolution

The Niepoort name is known worldwide as a pioneer in both Portuguese wine and port, and for good reason. Since its founding in 1842, the family business has evolved from a classic port maker to a widely recognized wine producer that pushes boundaries. Under the leadership of Dirk van der Niepoort, the quirky fifth generation, Niepoort continues to innovate and redefine the Portuguese wine world. What once began as a traditional family business is today a wine empire that is making a name for itself both through its refined port wines and its exceptional dry wines.

Niepoort's great transformation began in 1987, when Dirk returned to Portugal after studies in Switzerland and an internship in Napa Valley. The Douro Valley was at the beginning of a revolution at that time, still largely known for its port wines and rich history. While the entire Douro focused on the world-famous port wines, Dirk found his passion in creating dry wines that could showcase the Douro's unique expression.

Dirk quickly created a furor by setting new quality standards with iconic wines. In 1990, he launched Robustus, his first landmark, which was immediately highly regarded. Soon after followed the impressive Batuta and the elegant Charme, wines known for their refinement and ability to rival top wines from Burgundy. Because of his innovative vision, he quickly made a name for himself as the "king of the Cima Corgo," the subregion of the Douro famous for its quality.

Porto flows through the veins of the Niepoort family

Although Dirk focused on dry wines, port remained a foundation of Niepoort. The estate produces some of the best port wines in the world, with an impressive variety of styles and expressions. In the production of port, both the tradition and the innovation of Niepoort come into full play.

Vintage Port: Dirk himself vinifies only the best years, and other top years are taken care of by the Delaforce family, which has been associated with Niepoort for five generations. With each vintage port, they strive for excellence, combining power, concentration and depth. It is a tradition deeply rooted in the family, and the results speak for themselves.

LBV (Late Bottled Vintage): An absolute favorite within Niepoort's portfolio is their LBV, which, like a vintage port, undergoes no filtering and therefore ages extremely well. Dirk still speaks fondly of the 1981 LBV, which his father Rolf once referred to as "a benchmark LBV, perhaps the best ever made." Thanks to this love of detail and aging potential, Niepoort's LBVs are renowned worldwide.

Colheita Port: The Colheita is a single-vintage tawny port aged for years in oak barrels. This creates aromas of dried fruit, nuts and caramel, which meld into a port that is both rich and refined. This port offers an experience all its own, with the heritage of the Douro shining in every sip.

The new standard for Portuguese wines

Dirk's search for the perfect dry Douro wine led him to understand that vineyard orientation is crucial. South-facing vineyards in the Douro Valley proved ideal for port grapes, while north-facing vineyards - less exposed to the hot summers - provide the best base for still wines. This insight led to the creation of unique dry wines, such as the Redoma and Tiara, each reflecting the Douro's diversity and terroir.

With the purchase of vineyards such as Quinta de Nápoles and Quinta do Carril, Niepoort laid the foundation for quality wines such as Batuta, sourced from old vines in these historic vineyards. These wines are among the most complex and refined expressions of the Douro, while maintaining a fresh elegance characteristic of Niepoort.

Portuguese potential

Dirk's love of Portugal extends beyond the Douro Valley. In 2012, he bought Quinta de Baixo in Bairrada, an area known for the Baga grape. Here he makes wines such as Lagar de Baixo and Poeirinho, which are characterized by their tannic structure and excellent storage potential. These wines pay homage to the Baga grape and are a nice addition to the portfolio.

In subsequent years, Dirk expanded his vision further with the purchase of Quinta de Lomba in Dão, where, among other things, he produces the fresh Rótulo, and in 2016 Niepoort made his debut with Vinho Verde. With this, Niepoort remains true to their mission to present the versatility and potential of Portuguese wines internationally.

Niepoort, a symphony of innovation and tradition

Dirk's relentless drive to experiment has led to groundbreaking projects such as Nat'Cool, a series of light and fresh wines with a lower alcohol content, focused on drinking pleasure and terroir expression. With this, Niepoort responds to the modern demand for lighter wines that are still full of flavor. These wines reflect Dirk's vision that wine should above all be a social experience that remains drinkable and accessible.

With Dirk Niepoort at the helm, the family business has grown into an international icon that values both craftsmanship and creativity. Whether it is a traditional vintage port, an LBV or a dry wine like Charm, Niepoort manages to capture the soul of the Douro and of Portugal in every bottle. While committed to sustainability and preserving ancient grape varieties, Dirk remains true to his mission to create unique and timeless wines that delight generation after generation of enthusiasts around the world.

Niepoort continues to be distinguished by a rare combination of respect for tradition and a relentless hunger for innovation, through which the company not only continues the history of the Douro but also shapes its future.

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