Niepoort Robustus

The climatic conditions of the 2015 viticultural year were very favourable, with sun, heat and low humidity, allowing for homogeneous vegetative growth. Winter, with rain from March onwards, replaced a large part of the water reserves in the soil. At the beginning of spring, average temperatures were high and some rain completed water replacement, allowing a balanced bud break. After flowering in May, the painting started in July, quite homogeneous, about two weeks earlier than the previous year. One of the particularities of this viticultural year was the ability of the vine to remain hydrated during maturation. At the end of August, beginning of September, the basal leaves remained green and moist, with hydrated berries and a thick, firm film. The balance of the musts, the smoothness of the tannins and the intense concentration of color indicate that we are facing an exceptional year for Doc Douro wines.

The grapes for Robustus were selected manually at the entrance to the cellar, falling by gravity into a stainless steel vat. Alcoholic fermentation and maceration time were long. Aging in 2000 liter barrels lasted over 4 years. Of this wine, 5200 bottles were bottled in February 2020, without fining or filtration.

Robustus 2015 is a wine with a mature character. After a prolonged stage in 2000L foudres, it develops tertiary aromas that are somewhat earthy with an emphasis on the aroma of peat. The tannins are seductive, but perfectly balanced, with great structure, which only old vines can convey. In the mouth it impresses with its youth, lightness and tension, very fine with a long and persistent finish.

Win with decanting!