VertenteVertente

Vertente is the youngest member of the Niepoort Douro red wine family. Vertente was created in 2000 with the objective of providing a different ideology to Niepoort Douro wines. It is more approachable while still maintaining the quality and character of Niepoort (the portuguese word "vertente" means line or style). Vertente was produced from vineyards at Quinta de Nápoles and from old vineyards in the Pinhão Valley.

Vinification

The principle grape varieties used in Vertente are Tinta Amarela, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Franca, which are generally planted in mixed vineyards with 15 to 40 year old vines. The soil is pure schist and the vineyards are at a height of between 100 and 300 meters. Due to the very poor soils and the age of the vines, yields are only around 25 hl/ha. The harvest took place during the second fortnight. after desteming, the fermentation was in stainless steel lagares using the hydraulic "pisage" system, with an average maceration time of 8 days. The malolactic fermentation was in cask, where the wines were aged for 15 months, followed by 6 months aging in bottle.

Tasting Notes

The nose is fresh and fruity with concentrated berry fruits and the coffee/mokka notes give the wine elegance and character. The palate shows vibrant berry fruits and a great tannin structure that is balanced with freshness. The wood is well integrated and gives a long elegant finish.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

15 to 40 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

300

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel lagares

Bottled

June 2002

Ageing

15 month in french oak casks (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

33.3

Alcohol (%)

13

pH

3.62

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.8

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.65

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

35

Production

14.000 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is the youngest brother in the Niepoort Douro red wines family. Vertente was created in 2000 with the goal of showing a different approach in Niepoort Douro wines: more atainable, while preserving the quality and character of Niepoort (the portuguese word "vertente" means line or style). Vertente was sourced from vineyards at Quinta de Nápoles and from old vineyards in the Pinhão Valley.

Vinification

The 2001 harvest produced balanced and elegant Douro wines. The grape quality was guaranteed by rigorous separation on the selection table. After desteming, the fermentation was done in stainless steel lagares with hydraulic “pisage” system. The average maceration time was 8 days. The malolactic fermentation was in cask, where the wines aged for 12 month.

Tasting Notes

The nose is fresh and fruity with concentrated berry fruits. The coffee/mokka notes give the wine elegance and character. The palate shows vibrant berry fruits, great tannin structure balanced with freshness. The wood is well integrated and gives a long elegant finish.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

15 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

300

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel lagares

Bottled

August 2003

Ageing

12 month in french oak casks (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

33.2

Alcohol (%)

13.5

pH

3.61

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.85

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.66

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

27

Production

72.800 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

The grapes for Vertente 2002 were grown in vineyards around Quinta de Nápoles in the Tedo Valley and Pinhão Valley. The key grape varieties in Vertente are Tinta Amarela, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and Nacional. The vineyards are mostly mixed plantations of 15 to 70 year old vines. The soil is pure schist, at a height between 100 and 300 metres.

Vinification

2002 was a difficult year, as we had a lot of rain during harvest. Nevertheless, we managed to harvest most of the grapes before the rain.

A very precise selection of grapes was carried out in the winery in order to avoid rotten, unripe or overripe berries. After desteming, the fermentation was done in stainless steel lagares with hydraulic “pisage” system. The average maceration time was 6-7 days. The malolactic fermentation was done in casks, where the wines aged for 12 months.

Tasting Notes

Fruit driven with nice aromas of black berries and complex balsamic notes. The palate shows a full bodied wine with intense fruit aromas, balanced with pleasant freshness. The wood is well integrated with a long elegant finish.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

15 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

300

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel lagares

Bottled

July 2004

Ageing

12 month in french oak casks (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

31.6

Alcohol (%)

13

pH

3.57

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.92

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.62

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

27

Production

22.500 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

This is the fourth year of Vertente production, and the wine now shows a defined personality, clearly detached from Redoma or Batuta. Vertente is not only very pleasant to drink but also dense and complex, similar to a Bordeaux Claret. A versatile wine to go along with any meal.

Vinification

2003 was a dry, hot year, therefore we started to harvest earlier. To avoid an overripe style and assure freshness, a rigorous selection of the grapes was performed in the vineyards and in the winery, eliminating the overripe and dry grapes.

Vertente was sourced from vineyards at Quinta de Nápoles and from old vineyards in the Pinhão Valley. As in the previous years the fermentation was carried out in stainless steel open tanks with hydraulic “pisage” system. The average maceration time was 8 days. The malolactic fermentation was done in casks, where the wines aged for 12 months.

Tasting Notes

Fresh, with dark berry fruits and chocolate aromas, perfectly integrated with barrel ageing notes. Fine structure with velvety tannins. Intense midpalate fruit. Very long and fresh on the finish, with good ageing potential.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

15 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

300

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel lagares

Bottled

July 2005

Ageing

12 month in french oak casks (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

36.5

Alcohol (%)

13.5

pH

3.67

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.75

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.61

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

43

Production

17.000 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente red wine was first produced in 2000 and conquered an own identity in the red wine family in the last years. Vertente is appealing but complex: the fruit and concentration is typical of Douro wines and the elegance is typical of Niepoort. Vintage 2004 is, like 2003, a balance of elegance, complexity and freshness. Most of the grapes come from Quinta de Nápoles 20 years old vineyards, and the rest from old vineyards from Pinhão Valley. Vertente 2004 is a very deep and intense wine with great drinkability.

Vinification

2004 was a hot and dry year, with rain in middle of August, which was essential to allow a slow and natural maturation process. The result is very balanced wines in 2004.

The grapes where harvest during September to small 20kg boxes and, after a grape selection in the vines, a second selection was done in winery, using the sorting table. 80% of the wine was fermented in stainless steel lagares with hydraulic "pisage" system and the others 20% in stainless steel vats. The wine aged 15 months in French oak barrels were malolactic fermentation as occurred.

Tasting Notes

Dark ruby color, with fruit aromas, spicy with dark and green pepper notes, mineral with light smoky character from the age in barrel. The palate is very appealing, fruity with great freshness; the tannins are smooth with good persistence. A wine to drink now or in the next years.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

16 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

300

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel lagares

Bottled

Maio 2006

Ageing

12 month in french oak casks (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

32.9

Alcohol (%)

13.5

pH

3.62

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

3.49

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.56

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

28

Production

18.600 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is an appealing yet complex wine: the fruit and concentration is emblematic of Douro wines, and the elegance is typical of Niepoort. The grapes for the Vertente 2005 come from Quinta de Nápoles in the Tedo Valley, around 20 years old vineyards, and the rest from old vineyards from Pinhão Valley. Vertente 2005 is pleasant to drink, dense and complex.

Vinification

2005 was a dry and hot year in the Douro region. A very hot summer gave rise to vine stress specially in south facing vineyards. A light rain shower in early September allowed a complete fruit maturation with some very good acidity.

The harvest was made in September and the grapes were a rigorously select in the sorting table and subsequently destemmed.

The wine fermented in stainless steel lagares, with step hydraulic system, with total maceration of 8 to 10 days. The wine aged during 15 months in French oak barrels, in which elapsed the malolactic fermentation.

Tasting Notes

Dark ruby colour, with black and red fruit aromas, spicy with dark and green pepper notes, mineral with light smoky character from the age in barrel. The palate is fruity and the tannins are smooth with good persistence, fine and elegant. A wine with character to drink now or in the next years.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

20 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

300

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel lagares

Bottled

April 2007

Ageing

15 month in french oak casks (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

28.1

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

1.8

Alcohol (%)

13.5

pH

3.6

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.04

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.56

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

32

Production

27.100 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is an appealing yet complex wine: the fruit and concentration is emblematic of Douro wines, and the elegance is typical of Niepoort. The grapes for the Vertente 2006 come partially from 20 years old vineyards of Quinta de Nápoles in the Tedo Valley, and the rest from Pinhão Valley old vineyards. Vertente 2006 is dense and complex, pleasant to drink now but also with age potential.

Vinification

Although 2006 was not a very hot year, the special climate conditions occurred during maturation push us to an early harvest. After a light rain shower in middle August, what is normally good for balanced maturation process, very high temperatures between last week of August and 15 September forced us to start earlier and faster the picking in order to avoid high sugar contents on grapes.

The harvest was done in first weeks of September. After selection on the sorting table and total destemmed, the grapes were fermented in stainless steel lagares with total maceration of 12 days. Malolactic fermentation and 17 months elevage occurred in French oak barrels.

Tasting Notes

Dark ruby color, spicy character with black pepper notes, black and red fruit aromas, mineral and light smoky character from the age in barrel. The palate is fruity and the tannins are smooth, with very good persistence. Fine and elegant.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

20 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

300

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel lagares

Bottled

May 2008

Ageing

17 month in french oak casks (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

30.9

Alcohol (%)

14

pH

3.71

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.32

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.58

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

24

Production

31.914 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is an appealing yet complex wine: the fruit and concentration is emblematic of Douro wines, and the elegance is typical of Niepoort. The grapes for the Vertente 2007 come partially from 20 years old vineyards of Quinta de Nápoles in the Tedo Valley, and the rest from Pinhão Valley old vineyards. Vertente 2007 is dense and complex, pleasant to drink now but also with age potential.

Vinification

2007 was an excellent year in the Douro region; rains occurred during spring and early summer, allowing soils to maintain fairly good levels of water until harvest time. Mildew pressure in the vineyards also further reduced yields and was a key factor in producing high fruit concentration with amazing acidity and without excessive levels of sugar content.

The grapes were harvested during the month of September with perfect levels of maturity with good acidity, giving origin to very balanced wines. Following the sorting table grapes were totally destemmed. The wine fermented in stainless steel tanks and lagares, with total maceration varying between 8 to 25 days. The wine aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, in which the malolactic fermentation occurred.

Tasting Notes

Dark ruby colour, with red fruit aromas, spicy with dark and green pepper notes, very mineral. On the palate, it’s very balanced and appealing, elegant fruit with great freshness, the tannins are smooth but present with great intensity and persistence. A wine with character that is a very good example of the year 2007, to drink now or over the next few years.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

17 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

200-450

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel tanks and lagars

Bottled

April 2009

Ageing

18 month in french oak barrels (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

27.4

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

1.9

Alcohol (%)

13

pH

3.64

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.28

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.65

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

26

Production

37.986 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is an appealing wine: the fruit and concentration are the two main features of the Douro wines, and the elegance is a mark of Niepoort wines. The grapes for Vertente 2008 came partially from 20 years old vineyards of Quinta de Nápoles in the Tedo Valley, and the rest from Pinhão Valley’s old vineyards. This wine is dense, complex and fresh, pleasant to drink now but also with great potential for ageing and improving with time.

Vinification

2008 year was an uncommonly fresh and damp year, for Douro standards; as a result we had a slow and very balanced maturation process in the vineyards with very good weather during harvest and ideal conditions to produce amazing wines. Grapes were picked during September and beginning of October. The wine fermented in stainless steel tanks and lagares, with total maceration varying between 8 to 25 days. The wine aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, where the malolactic fermentation occurred.

Tasting Notes

Dark ruby colour, with red fruit aromas, spicy with dark and green pepper notes, very mineral. On the palate is balanced and appealing, elegant fruit with great freshness, the tannins are smooth but present with great intensity and persistence. A wine with character to drink now or over the next few years.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

20 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

200-450

Harvest Period

September/October

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel tanks and lagares

Bottled

May 2010

Ageing

18 month in French oak barrels (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

26.8

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

2

Alcohol (%)

13.5

pH

3.63

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.11

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.66

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

21

Production

78.000 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is an appealing wine, with fruit and concentration, two main characteristic of the Douro wines, but also elegant, which is a mark of Niepoort wines. The grapes for Vertente 2009 came from, 20 years old vineyards of Quinta de Nápoles in the Tedo Valley, and from Pinhão Valley’s old vineyards. It is a dense wine, complex and fresh, pleasant to drink right away, but with great potential for ageing and improving with time.

Vinification

2009 was a very fresh year until the beginning of August. A good amount of water in the soil and a cold weather, unusual in the Douro Valley, was leading us to a long maturation season. But incredible high temperatures from 12th of August onwards, resulted in a very fast maturation process all over the region without any shrivel berry. Harvest started earlier, in the beginning of September.

After a careful selection in the vineyards and winery, the grapes were fermented, in stainless steel tanks, with total maceration until a maximum of 20 days. The wine aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, with 30% of new wood, where the malolactic fermentation occurred.

Tasting Notes

Deep colour. Red and black fruit aromas, spicy with dark and green pepper notes and very mineral. On the palate is balanced and appealing, showing elegant fruit with great freshness. The tannins are smooth but present with great intensity and persistence. A wine with character to drink right away or over the next few years

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

20 to 70 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others

Vines per HA

4500-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

200-450

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel tanks

Bottled

July 2011

Ageing

18 month in French oak barrels (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

28.1

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

1.9

Alcohol (%)

13.5

pH

3.61

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.26

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.74

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

18

Production

50.440 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

The grapes for Vertente come from the slopes of Pinhão and Tedo rivers, both Douro tributes. The grape blend includes several varieties, where Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz are predominant. Vertente is a fresh and elegant wine. Its freshness and youth come from the 20 year old vineyards of Quinta de Nápoles and its elegance from the old vineyards of Pinhão Valley. This wine is very gastronomic and although it’s produced to be drunk young, has a very good ageing potential.

Vinification

2010 was uncommonly wet during winter and early spring, with heavy rains during these months. As a consequence, the yields were high and we had to deal with a strong disease pressure on the vineyard. The maturation period was very hot and dry, but fortunately, light rain in the first days of September helped, especially on the older and high altitude vineyards, contributing to a balanced maturation process.

After a careful selection in the vineyards and winery, the grapes were fermented, in stainless steel vats, with total maceration up to 20 days, with very little extraction. The wine aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, where the malolactic fermentation occurred. It was bottled in August 2012.

Tasting Notes

Bright ruby color with black pepper notes combined with red berries fruit aromas. It has plenty of plums and cherries notes and a strong mineral character of wet stone aroma. Very rich and complex. The palate is firm with great acidity and a great tannic structure supported by well balanced tannins. Very long and persistent, promising a long life in bottle.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

20 to 60 years

Grape Varieties

Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and others

Vines per HA

4000-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel

Bottled

August 2012

Ageing

18 months in french oak casks (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

27.6

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

2

Alcohol (%)

13.5

pH

3.62

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.7

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

20

Production

53.718 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is made with grapes from 25 year old vineyards of Quinta de Nápoles and old vines planted on the banks of the Pinhão river, where Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz are predominant. The old vines contribute to the elegance of this wine, while the 25 year old vines give it youth. It is a wine that finds a unique balance between concentration, fruit, complexity and elegance, resulting in an excellent 2011 red. Made to be drunk young, it has a great ageing potential.

Vinification

2011 was characterised by early flowering and the whole growing season took place earlier, with harvesting starting much sooner than usual. However, the vines planted at higher altitudes matured more slowly and the wines eventually revealed moderate alcohol content and good levels of tartaric and malic acid.

The harvest began on the 5th September and after careful selection both at the vine and the winery, fermentation took place in stainless steel cone-shaped vats, with maceration up to a maximum of 25 days. The wine aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, with 15% new oak, where malolactic fermentation took place.

Tasting Notes

Vertente 2011 has a bright, very distinctive ruby colour. The nose is complex and subtle, with black fruit aromas, spices and mineral notes reminiscent of wet earth. On the palate it is elegant and fine, with a good structure, well balanced and smooth tannins, with a long, fresh finish. It is a wine with character, promising a long life in bottle.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

25 to 60 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others

Vines per HA

4000-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel vats

Bottled

May 2013

Ageing

18 months in French oak barrels (228l)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

27.9

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

2

Alcohol (%)

14

pH

3.61

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.1

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.7

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

18

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

70

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.99

Production

40.500 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is made from grapes from the 25 year old vineyards of Quinta de Nápoles and old vines planted on the slopes of the river Pinhão, where Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz are predominant. The old vines contribute to the elegance of this wine, while the 25 year old vines give it youth. It is a wine that finds a unique balance between concentration, fruit, complexity and elegance, creating an excellent 2012 red. Made to be consumed young, it has great ageing potential.

Vinification

2012 was marked by the lack of rain in the Douro region. As a result, the growing cycle began, on average, 15 days later than in previous years. Furthermore, the winter of 2012 was marked by low temperatures, enabling the vegetation to grow in an appropriate and balanced way. The ripening period was not as warm as usual and the cooler temperatures allowed the grapes to achieve good total acidity, a key factor for a fresh and balanced taste.

The harvest took place in September. After selection at the vine, a second selection on the sorting table took place. 70% of the wine fermented in stainless steel wine presses, with an automatic pressing system and the remaining 30% fermented in cone-shaped stainless steel vats. The wine aged for 18 months in French oak barrels where malolactic fermentation took place.

Tasting Notes

In 2012, Vertente has a pretty ruby red colour, of medium concentration. A very fresh aroma and good complexity, marked by a mineral profile. Notes of black fruit, dark chocolate and spices. Very elegant on the palate with a good structure, without being heavy. Fine and well integrated tannins, it is a wine full of youth, with good acidity and fresh fruit. A long and elegant finish. Ideal to be drunk now, but thanks to its balance, it will have a long life in the bottle.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

25 to 60 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Amarela, Touriga Franca and others

Vines per HA

4000-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel vats

Bottled

May 2014

Ageing

18 months in French oak barrels (228 L)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

25.8

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

0.5

Alcohol (%)

13.65

pH

3.56

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.2

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.7

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

27

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

94

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.9906

Production

25.872 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is a wine of great elegance and complexity that combines masterly the fruit and concentration of the Douro wines with the freshness of Niepoort wines.

In 2013, this characteristics became even more pronounced with a clear change of style, where was highlighted the delicate extraction and the great elegance of this Douro wine.

The grapes for Vertente come from old vines with over 60 years, situated on the right bank of Douro river and from a small part of vines with about 30 years planted in river Tedo valley, at Quinta de Nápoles.

Vinification

The 2013 harvest began on 19 August, earlier than usual, in order to maintain the high levels of acidity and avoid high degrees of alcohol. It was a more productive year, around 25% better than 2012. The decision to start harvesting earlier turned out to be the right one, since the main vineyards had already been harvested before it started raining heavily on the 27th September.

The harvest took place in September. After selection at the vine, a second selection on the sorting table took place. 70% of the wine fermented in stainless steel wine presses, with an automatic pressing system and the remaining 30% fermented in cone-shaped stainless steel vats. The wine aged for 20 months in French oak barrels where malolactic fermentation took place.

Tasting Notes

Beautiful violet colour of medium concentration. While young, is restrained in the aroma, with profoundly mineral aromas, tense and with very soft floral aroma. Well integrated wood, bringing some good smoked and iodized notes. Good volume in the mouth, with determination and with tannins that recall the schist. Acidity and fruit well combined. Long and fresh finish. A wine that will grow a lot in the bottle, although it already has a good balance.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

25 - 60 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Amarela, Touriga Franca, and others

Vines per HA

4000-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel vats

Bottled

June 2015

Ageing

20 months in French oak barrels (228 L)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

25.5

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

0.6

Alcohol (%)

13

pH

3.67

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

4.8

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.7

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

20

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

74

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.9914

Production

33.474 bottles

Food Suggestions

Roast beef (with yorkshire pudding), tradicional portuguese duck rice, tradicional codfish dishes, Magré de Canard. Cheese suggestions: Camembert, Sainte Albré, Brie.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Vertente is a wine of great elegance and complexity that combines masterly the fruit and concentration of the Douro wines with the freshness of Niepoort wines.

In 2013, this characteristics became even more pronounced with a clear change of style, where was highlighted the delicate extraction and the great elegance of this Douro wine.

The grapes for Vertente come from old vines with over 60 years, situated on the right bank of Douro river and from a small part of vines with about 30 years planted in river Tedo valley, at Quinta de Nápoles.

Vinification

The 2014 harvest was slightly lower in production compared with 2013, but certainly made up for it in quality. Harvest began in early September, as usual, in order to maintain the high levels of acidity, balance and freshness. As in the previous year, the early start avoided the rain, later in the month and over ripen fruit in the more exposed vineyards.

After a first selection at the vineyards, a second selection took place on the sorting table. 70% of the wine fermented in stainless steel vats with an automatic pressing system and the remaining 30% in cone-shaped stainless steel vats. The wine aged for 20 months in French oak barrels where malolactic fermentation took place.

Tasting Notes

With a beautiful violet colour of medium concentration, Vertente 2014 has a delicate profile with mineral and wild black fruit notes. The wood is well integrated, showing some smoked and spice notes. Tense, deep, and with a good structure, it is fine and elegant in the mouth, with a balanced acidity and well integrated tannins.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

30-60 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others

Vines per HA

4000-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

Barrels

Fermentation

Stainless steel vats

Bottled

June 2016

Ageing

18 months in 228 L French oak barrels

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

26.1

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

0.6

Alcohol (%)

12.4

pH

3.58

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.7

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

33

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

112

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.9921

Food Suggestions

White meat (turkey, chicken). Grilling. Fat fish (salmon, grouper). Vegetarian: pastas and quiche.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

The Vertente is produced from vineyards which are more than 35 years old, growing in the Quinta de Nápoles, and from old vines planted on the slopes of the Pinhão River where Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela and Rufete are the predominant varieties. The old vines contribute to the wine’s elegance, while the younger fruit lend it a youthful freshness. In this excellent 2015 red, concentration, fruit, complexity and elegance create a unique harmony. In line with the Niepoort style, the Vertente is finer, more elegant and more linear with every vintage.

Vinification

The 2015 vintage presented us with very favourable weather conditions: plenty of sunshine and warmth but without too much moisture, ideal for even growth. One of this year’s peculiarities was the vines’ ability to remain hydrated during the ripening stage. At the end of August and beginning September the basal leaves were still moist and green, the berries well-hydrated and the grape skins thick and firm. The well-balanced musts, the smooth tannins and the deep colour were already pointing to an exceptional vintage for the Douro.

Harvest began in the month of August and continued until the end of September. After a meticulous bunch selection in the vineyards, the grapes were sorted a second time in the cellar. The Vertente 2015 was fermented in conical stainless steel tanks before being left to mature for 22 months in French barriques where the wine also completed its malolactic fermentation.

Tasting Notes

A beautiful, deep ruby colour matches the wine’s expressive aromatics characterised by minerality as well as dark chocolate and fruits of the forest notes. The wood is well-integrated, providing some hints of smokiness and spice. Tightly structured, profound, with a good backbone, this wine is elegant and fine on the palate, with well-integrated tannins, balanced acidity and a long finish. A vintage such as 2015 shows a fantastic balance between fruit and acidity as well as between body and smooth tannins. This is a great year for the Vertente, which will age superbly in the cellar.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles e Vale de Pinhão

Average Vine Age

35-80 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Amarela, Touriga Franca, Rufete and others.

Vines per HA

4000 to 6500 vines

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500 above sea level

Harvest Period

September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

In barriques

Fermentation

In stainless steel tanks

Bottled

July 2017

Ageing

22 months in French oak barriques (228 L)

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

25

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

0.6

Alcohol (%)

12.2

pH

3.57

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5.1

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.6

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

40

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

112

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.99

Production

46000 bottles

Allergens

Sulfite

Food Suggestions

White meats (turkey, chicken), grilled dishes. Oily fish (salmon, sea bass). Vegetarian options: pasta and quiches.

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Bottle

Box

15.1 23.4 × 6 7945 cardboard

Pallet

120 80 × 8 Rows 100 Boxes

The Vertente is a wine of incredible elegance and complexity which masterfully combines the fruitiness and concentration of Douro wines with the freshness typical of Niepoort’s winemaking philosophy.

The majority of the grapes for the Vertente originate from vines older than 60 years, planted on the right bank of the Douro River, and a smaller quantity comes from 30-year-old vineyard blocks situated in the Tedo River Valley, in the Quinta de Nápoles.

Vinification

2016 gave us a cold and rainy Spring, which had an inevitable impact on the growth and development cycle of the vines. An extremely dry Summer ensued, with considerable fluctuations between day and night temperatures.

Harvest began mid-August and continued through to the end of September. After a meticulous sorting process, the grapes were placed into conical stainless steel tanks where they began their fermentation process, with a relatively short maceration and extraction period.

Lastly, the wine went through malolactic fermentation in French oak barriques in which the wine also matured for around 20 months. Bottling took place in June 2018.

Tasting Notes

The Vertente 2016 offers a beautiful, concentrated ruby colour and a youthful, rich and complex nose full of black pepper aromas and red fruits of the forest notes, with nuances of plums and cherries too. The wood is subtle, providing some hints of smokiness. One can also detect mineral notes of wet stone. The palate is tightly structured and profound, with a good backbone, yet showing elegance and finesse, with well-integrated tannins and balanced acidity which give it a long and deeply enjoyable finish. This Vertente should age very well in bottle.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

30 to 60 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others

Vines per HA

4000-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500

Harvest Period

August and September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

In barriques

Fermentation

In stainless steel tanks

Bottled

June 2018

Ageing

20 months in French oak barriques

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

25.5

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

0.6

Alcohol (%)

12.5

pH

3.57

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

4.9

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.7

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

19

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

79

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.99

Production

66000 bottles

Allergens

Sulfite

Food Suggestions

White meats (turkey, chicken), grilled dishes. Oily fish (salmon, sea bass). Vegetarian options: pasta and quiches.

Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians

yes

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Bottle

Box

15 23.4 30 × 6 7945 cardboard

Pallet

120 80 × 8 Rows 100 Boxes

The Vertente is a wine of incredible elegance and complexity which masterfully combines the fruitiness and concentration of Douro wines with the freshness typical of Niepoort’s winemaking philosophy.

As the name suggests (“Vertente” means “aspect” or “hillside”), this wine represents an overview of the Douro Valley: it is made up of a little bit of all the Douro terroirs that we cultivate. The majority of the grapes originate from old vineyards aged between 50 and 80 years, with a traditional blend of several grape varieties.

Vinification

The 2017 vintage can be described as a hot year – the second hottest since 1931, with much lower precipitation levels than usual, leading to high evaporation and significantly decreased soil humidity. 2017 is therefore also classified as one of the driest years since 1931.

Niepoort’s philosophy to work with old vines proved to be rewarding as they are less affected by various weather conditions, benefit from better balance and have access to the water reserves located deep in the soils.

The grapes showed excellent quality and health, with ripe and crunchy skins and mature seeds. They were picked between 10 August and 10 September, making it the earliest harvest in Niepoort’s history. This early harvest allowed us to obtain grapes with well-balanced natural acidity and therefore to craft fresh, elegant and linear wines.

Tasting Notes

The Vertente is a wine of incredible elegance and complexity which balances the fruitiness and concentration of Douro wines with the freshness typical of Niepoort’s winemaking philosophy. It offers a youthful and complex nose full of red fruit and spice, an elegant palate and well-integrated oak which complements the wine’s finesse and smooth tannins. Its superb acidity provides a long finish and promises great ageing potential.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schist

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

30 to 60 years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others

Vines per HA

4000-6500

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150 to 500

Harvest Period

August and September

Harvest Method

Hand picked

Malolactic

In French oak barrels

Fermentation

In stainless steel tanks

Bottled

June 2019

Ageing

22 months in French oak barrels

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

25.3

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

0.6

Alcohol (%)

13.1

pH

3.61

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

5

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.7

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

22

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

97

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.991

Production

61450 bottles

Allergens

Sulfite

Food Suggestions

White meats (turkey, chicken), grilled dishes. Oily fish (salmon, sea bass). Vegetarian options: pasta and quiches.

Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians

yes

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Bottle

Box

15 23.4 30 × 6 7945 cardboard

Pallet

80 120 × 8 Rows 100 Boxes

The Vertente is a wine of incredible elegance and complexity which masterfully combines the fruitiness and concentration of Douro wines with the freshness typical of Niepoort’s winemaking philosophy.

As the name suggests (“Vertente” means “aspect” or “hillside”), this wine represents an overview of the Douro Valley: it is made up of a little bit of all the Douro terroirs that we cultivate. The majority of the grapes originate from old vineyards aged between 50 and 80 years, with a traditional blend of several grape varieties.

Vinification

The 2018 vintage was relatively cool up until August, with the coldest July recorded of the 21st century. In comparison to 2017, ripening was delayed by about 3 weeks. The first days of August brought a sudden increase in temperatures, with 4 August being the hottest day of the 21st century (to date). This meant that the grapes matured slowly in the month of September. Due to water stress, we obtained musts with low alcohol contents and good phenolic ripeness, with plenty of complexity and lightness.

After a meticulous bunch selection in the vineyards, the grapes were sorted a second time in the cellar. The Vertente 2018 was fermented in conical stainless steel tanks before being left to mature for 22 months in french oak barrels.

Tasting Notes

A brilliant ruby red colour of medium intensity clothes this Vertente and its typical 2018 characteristics. Its nose is still very youthful, with notes of graphite, fruits of the forest and some black plum mingling with some added complexity from the wood. Its fine and deeply refreshing flavour profile provides tension and complexity on the palate, making the Vertente 2018 a truly elegant wine, with a pleasant finish. This wine will undoubtedly age beautifully in the bottle.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schiste

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

30 to 60 Years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others

Vines per HA

4500-6000

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500

Harvest Period

August and September

Harvest Method

Hand Picked

Malolactic

In French oak barrels

Fermentation

In stainless tanks

Bottled

July 2020

Ageing

22 months in french oak barrels

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

24

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

0.6

Alcohol (%)

12.6

pH

3.59

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

4.9

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.7

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

28

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

110

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.991

Production

78800 Bottles

Allergens

Sulfite

Food Suggestions

White meats (turkey, chicken), grilled dishes. Oily fish (salmon, sea bass). Vegetarian options: pasta and quiches.

Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians

yes

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Bottle

Box

15 23.4 30 × 6 7945 cardboard

Pallet

80 120 × 8 Rows 100 Boxes

The Vertente is a wine of incredible elegance and complexity which masterfully combines the fruitiness and concentration of Douro wines with the freshness typical of Niepoort’s winemaking philosophy.

As the name suggests (“Vertente” means “aspect” or “hillside”), this wine represents an overview of the Douro Valley: it is made up of a little bit of all the Douro terroirs that we cultivate. The majority of the grapes originate from old vineyards aged between 30 and 60 years, with a traditional blend of several grape varieties.

Vinification

The 2019 viticultural year was marked by dry weather. Spring began with high temperatures, which subsequently dropped and remained low during the entire summer. Some rainfall occurred at just the right point of the vines’ growth phase, and flowering took place in excellent weather conditions, leading to medium to high yields with healthy berries. The mild days and cool nights of the month of August allowed the fruit to ripen slowly and harmoniously.

Harvesting began on 8 August. The peak harvesting period took place during the week of 8 - 15 September, with the harvest ending on 1 October.

After a meticulous bunch selection in the vineyards, the grapes were sorted a second time in the cellar. The Vertente 2019 was fermented in conical stainless steel tanks before being left to mature for 22 months in french oak barrels.

Tasting Notes

The colour is pale and of medium concentration.

The nose, rich with aromas of fruits of the forest, also offers notes of graphite, spice, leather and beautifully integrated wood.

On the palate, the wine shines with youthfulness, tension, acidity and structure.

The finish is piquant and persistent.

Technical Information

Producer

Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A

Region

Douro

Wine Color

Red

Soil Type

Schiste

Vineyards

Quinta de Nápoles and Vale do Pinhão

Average Vine Age

30 to 60 Years

Grape Varieties

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others

Vines per HA

4500-6000

Pruning Method

Guyot and Royat

Altitude (m)

150-500

Harvest Period

August and September

Harvest Method

Hand Picked

Malolactic

In French oak barrels

Fermentation

In stainless tanks

Bottled

July 2021

Ageing

22 months in french oak barrels

Dry Extract (g/dm3)

22.7

Residual Sugar (g/dm3)

0.6

Alcohol (%)

13.1

pH

3.61

Total Acidity (g/dm3)

4.6

Volatile Acidity (g/dm3)

0.8

Free SO2 at Bottling (mg/dm3)

20

Total SO2 (mg/dm3)

100

Volumic Mass (g/cm3)

0.99

Production

42600 Bottles

Allergens

Sulfite

Food Suggestions

White meats (turkey, chicken), grilled dishes. Oily fish (salmon, sea bass). Vegetarian options: pasta and quiches.

Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians

yes

Last Updated

2023-03-20

Bottle

Box

15 23.4 30 × 6 7945 cardboard

Pallet

80 120 × 8 Rows 100 Boxes