Niepoort’s 2016 Poeirinho is a love letter to the iconic Baga grape, paying tribute to the lighter, low-alcohol reds of old Bairrada. Its name, Poeirinho, harks back to the vintage term for Baga, and this wine is a deep dive into the terroir of the region. Organically grown in the certified SATIVA vineyards of Quinta de Baixo, this wine reflects Dirk Niepoort’s passion for the unique calcareous soils of Bairrada. The result? A beautifully balanced wine that captures the region’s essence with a delicate yet complex profile.
The 2016 vintage in Bairrada was a rollercoaster of weather patterns, with a mild winter turning into a rainy spring. This challenging start required precise vineyard care. Fortunately, the summer heat arrived right on time, allowing the grapes to mature evenly. Harvesting kicked off on 6th September, a bit later than usual, but the quality was superb despite a lower yield. Fermentation took place in traditional open lagares and closed tanks, using carbonic maceration to enhance freshness. Malolactic fermentation was completed in old wooden vats, where the wine matured for 20 months before being bottled unfiltered, showcasing the purest expression of Baga.
Tasting Note: Aromas of red cherries, wild berries, and a touch of earthiness. Despite its structured tannins and full body, it carries an elegant lightness, a hallmark of Baga. Saline notes from the calcareous clay soils peek through, adding a unique freshness. The finish is long, vibrant, and deeply satisfying. For the ultimate experience, serve this wine lightly chilled in a Burgundy glass.
Origin: Bairrada, Portugal
Alcohol: 11.5%
Blend: Baga
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