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šŸ· Niepoort: Portugal’s 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 — 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 — rich in terroir, emotion, and individuality. It’s not just wine; it’s a philosophy in a bottle.


šŸ‡ Niepoort Pinot Noir 2020

Burgundy soul, Douro altitude

Think Pinot Noir doesn’t 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.


It’s not the plush, polished Pinot you might find elsewhere — it’s 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.


šŸŽ¼ Batuta 2017

Power wrapped in finesse – a wine that whispers, not shouts

Batuta, which means ā€œconductor’s batonā€ in Portuguese, is Dirk’s 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 — 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 isn’t loud; it’s contemplative, cerebral, even philosophical. The perfect bottle to share over long dinners or quiet reflections.

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šŸ« Niepoort LBV 2018

Late Bottled Vintage with no filters, no compromises

Niepoort’s Late Bottled Vintage PortĀ isn’t 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.


It’s 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.

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🄜 Niepoort 10 Anos Tawny

Ten years of time in a glass

This 10-Year-Old Tawny Port is often the gateway into Niepoort’s Port universe. Aged in small barrels, it develops gorgeous layers of dried fig, roasted hazelnuts, toffee, and hints of cigar box. Yet, there’s still a bright acidity keeping it fresh and vibrant.


It’s a classic for a reason. You can pair it with blue cheese, salted almonds, or crĆØme brĆ»lĆ©e — or simply sip it solo and let the quiet complexity unfold sip by sip. Elegant, comforting, and endlessly rewarding.

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šŸŽØ Not Just Wine — A Living, Breathing Art Project

Niepoort isn’t just about winemaking. It’s 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 — in the best way.

He once said:

ā€œI prefer to work with nature, not against it.ā€And that ethos shows in every glass. His wines don’t just taste good — they feel alive.

✨ A Wine for Every Mood, A Bottle with a Soul

What makes Niepoort so special isn’t just the quality (though that’s undeniable). It’s the feeling you get when you drink it. Each wine has its own personality, its own rhythm. They don’t conform. They invite you to think, taste, and explore.


Whether it’s 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 isn’t that what wine should do?


Ready to discover the curious world of Niepoort?Browse these wines at šŸ‘‰ www.wineocork.com

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