Quinta da Lomba Tinto, Garrafeira Dão DOC 2016

A dry red wine with bottle age that translates its power into contour. At 13.5% ABV it stays lean, and its structure carries weight without heaviness. The 2016 vintage has rounded the edges and developed the spice character typical of mature Dão reds.

The Dão lies in Portugal's interior, on granite soils, sheltered by mountain ranges that hold back Atlantic humidity. Niepoort has been rooted in the Douro Valley since 1842. Dirk Niepoort (born 1964) transformed the house from a Port producer into a still-wine producer and extended its work into the neighbouring Dão; Quinta da Lomba belongs to that chapter.

The blend unites three indigenous varieties: Jaen, Tinta Pinheira and Alfrocheiro. Niepoort has farmed organically since 1999, and today all vineyards are managed biodynamically. House practice calls for hand harvesting, spontaneous fermentation with wild yeasts and gentle ageing in large wooden vats, along with low yields and early picking. Dirk Niepoort's credo: wine is made in the vineyard. His son Daniel carries this line forward as cellar master.

Deep ruby red with garnet reflections at the rim. On the nose, blackberry and black cherry, followed by violet, with cedarwood, tobacco and herbal spice behind. The palate stays dry and supple, the tannins are softly integrated, and the vibrant acidity provides freshness and length.

Roast lamb with rosemary, braised beef in red wine jus and aged Manchego. Also pairs well with game dishes and feijoada, the Portuguese bean stew.

Garrafeira, for this bottling, denotes particular care and ageing potential. In 2024, Wine Enthusiast named Niepoort "European Winery of the Year".