Niepoort - Colheita Port 1997 (750ml)
Niepoort Colheita 1997 Port, a Tawny Port from a single year, is a testament to the art of aging. Traditionally, Colheita Ports are aged in 550 L Pipas for a minimum of seven years. However, Niepoort, the esteemed producer, extends this aging process a few years more before bottling to enhance the depth and complexity of the wine. This Port is a perfect pairing for egg-based or dried fruit desserts and stands alone beautifully as a finale to a meal.
The 1997 viticultural year was an anomaly. A dry winter with a hot February was followed by a rainy, cold spring lasting until May. The summer, however, was long, hot, and dry, allowing the grapes to ripen fully and ideally. This resulted in rich, full-bodied, and tannic wines, some of exceptional quality. The year 1997 is noted for its classic and generalized declaration of Vintage Port.
Upon pouring, the Niepoort Colheita 1997 Port reveals a beautiful color palette of orange and brick tones. Its aroma and palate reflect the maturity of the wine, a result of its long aging in small, old oak casks. Candied fruit notes reminiscent of apricots and peaches are seamlessly integrated with smoky undertones and dried fruit. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and voluminous, marked by lively acidity. It's an enveloping experience, culminating in a long and highly pleasant finish.
Produced by Niepoort(Vinhos) S.A in the Douro region, this red wine is cultivated in the schist soils of the Vale do Pinhão and Ferrão vineyards. The vines, aged over 60 years, are a mix of grape varieties including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinto Cão, Tinta Francisca, Tinta Amarela, Sousão, Tinta Roriz, and others.
