Niepoort Bioma Vinha Velha Vintage 2016 – Organic top Vintage from old vines in Douro

Niepoort Bioma Vinha Velha Vintage 2016 is an uncompromising and terroir-driven Vintage Port from the heart of the Douro. The grapes come from old vineyards with vines ranging from 80 to over 100 years old. This is concentration, depth and authenticity in its purest form – created for collectors and Port lovers seeking the extraordinary.

The 2016 vintage is considered one of the greats of the Douro. Bioma is distinguished by its organic approach and its focus on minimal intervention. The result is a Vintage Port with a distinctive structure, intense fruit and impressive ageing potential.

The grapes – Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Red Cão, Tinta Francisca, Tinta Amarela, Sousão and Touriga Nacional – were harvested in September 2016. They were traditionally foot trodden in small granite vats (lagares), which ensures optimal extraction. After fermentation, grape spirit is added and the wine rests over winter.

In spring, the port is moved to a cooler environment and aged in classic 550 liter barrels. Untraditionally for a Vintage, this Bioma was aged for a full 3 years before bottling in January 2019. The extra barrel aging provides more integration, depth and complexity without losing freshness.

Tasting notes

Color: Intense dark ruby with an almost black core.

Aroma: Concentrated aromas of black berries, violets and dark cherries. Spices and a subtle mineral note.

Flavor: Powerful and structured with layers of blackberries, plums and black pepper. The old vines add depth and complexity, while the tannins are firm and elegant.

Finish: Long, intense and precise with fresh acidity and great ageing potential.

This Vintage Port can be enjoyed young for its fruity intensity, but will develop beautifully over decades in the cellar.

The House of Niepoort

Niepoort was founded in 1842 by Franciscus Marius Niepoort and has been family owned since. Today, the house is run by 5th generation Eduard Dirk Niepoort together with Verona Niepoort. The philosophy has always been that two generations work side by side to maintain the style and continuity of the house.

The Master Blender role has also been passed down through the generations. Today, José Rodrigo, the 5th generation of his family, has been in charge of blending at Niepoort since 2006. The combination of tradition, innovation and respect for the Douro terroir makes Niepoort one of the region’s most respected producers.

• Producer: Niepoort
• Region: Douro, Portugal
• Type: Vintage Port
• Vineyard: Vinha Velha – old vines (80-100+ years)
• Vintage: 2016
• Harvest: September 2016
• Bottled: January 2019
• Barrel aging: 3 years in 550 liter barrels
• Grapes: Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Red Cão, Tinta Francisca, Tinta Amarela, Sousão, Touriga Nacional
• Quantity: 75 cl
• Contains: Sulfites
• Alcohol content: 19.5%