š· Niepoort: Portugalās Maverick of Winemaking
- Wine O'Cork
- Jul 31
- 3 min read
When it comes to Portuguese wines with character, bold vision, and a touch of rebellious flair, NiepoortĀ stands in a league of its own. Founded in 1842 by a Dutch family, Niepoort is now led by the legendary Dirk Niepoort, the fifth-generation winemaker who is often described as a genius, a madman, and a visionary ā all in one breath.
Niepoort has redefined what it means to be a Portuguese wine producer. From age-worthy Port to natural-leaning still wines and offbeat bottle designs, every release tells a story ā rich in terroir, emotion, and individuality. Itās not just wine; itās a philosophy in a bottle.
š Niepoort Pinot Noir 2020
Burgundy soul, Douro altitude
Think Pinot Noir doesnāt belong in Portugal? Think again. Grown at high altitudes in Douro, this Pinot Noir 2020 shows a delicacy and freshness that surprises and delights. The winemaking is restrained, allowing red cherry, rose petals, and subtle earthy notes to shine.
Itās not the plush, polished Pinot you might find elsewhere ā itās raw, expressive, and unforgettable. Perfect with grilled duck breast, roast chicken, or a platter of Iberico ham, this is a wine for those who appreciate elegance without pretension.
š¼ Batuta 2017
Power wrapped in finesse ā a wine that whispers, not shouts
Batuta, which means āconductorās batonā in Portuguese, is Dirkās ode to balance. It comes from ancient, high-altitude vineyards (some over 70 years old), where Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, and other local grapes are coaxed into harmony. No heavy extraction, no manipulation ā just a deep respect for what the land offers.
Expect layers of blackberries, spices, graphite, and a hint of olive tapenade, held together by a firm yet elegant structure. Batuta isnāt loud; itās contemplative, cerebral, even philosophical. The perfect bottle to share over long dinners or quiet reflections.

š« Niepoort LBV 2018
Late Bottled Vintage with no filters, no compromises
Niepoortās Late Bottled Vintage PortĀ isnāt your average sweet sipper. This 2018 vintage is unfiltered, showcasing pure fruit and complexity with every pour. Made primarily from Touriga NacionalĀ and other Douro grapes, it bursts with black cherry, plum jam, and hints of cocoa and spice.
Itās bold but smooth, with great aging potential. Whether you're sharing it over a cheese board or sipping it alongside flourless chocolate cake, this is a Port wine that turns any evening into a celebration.

š„ Niepoort 10 Anos Tawny
Ten years of time in a glass
This 10-Year-Old Tawny Port is often the gateway into Niepoortās Port universe. Aged in small barrels, it develops gorgeous layers of dried fig, roasted hazelnuts, toffee, and hints of cigar box. Yet, thereās still a bright acidity keeping it fresh and vibrant.
Itās a classic for a reason. You can pair it with blue cheese, salted almonds, or crĆØme brĆ»lĆ©e ā or simply sip it solo and let the quiet complexity unfold sip by sip. Elegant, comforting, and endlessly rewarding.

šØ Not Just Wine ā A Living, Breathing Art Project
Niepoort isnāt just about winemaking. Itās about storytelling, risk-taking, and pushing the boundariesĀ of tradition. From the whimsical labels to the unconventional use of native grapes and natural fermentation, everything Dirk Niepoort does challenges the status quo ā in the best way.
He once said:
āI prefer to work with nature, not against it.āAnd that ethos shows in every glass. His wines donāt just taste good ā they feel alive.
⨠A Wine for Every Mood, A Bottle with a Soul
What makes Niepoort so special isnāt just the quality (though thatās undeniable). Itās the feeling you get when you drink it. Each wine has its own personality, its own rhythm. They donāt conform. They invite you to think, taste, and explore.
Whether itās the whispering elegance of Pinot Noir, the depth of Batuta, the joyful intensity of LBV, or the wisdom of the 10-Year Tawny, each bottle takes you on a journey.
And isnāt that what wine should do?
Ready to discover the curious world of Niepoort?Browse these wines at š www.wineocork.com
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