Not every Vintage Port tells the story of a single vineyard so clearly. Niepoort Bioma Vinha Velha 2016 comes entirely from Vinha da Pisca, a historic plot in the Douro where many of the vines are over eighty years old. Dirk Niepoort gives this organically farmed vineyard its own distinct character. Since 2007, this selection has been released separately as Bioma, while Pisca also plays an important role in the house\u2019s classic Vintage Ports.<\/p>\n
2016 is one of the widely declared Vintage Port vintages. In this vintage, numerous port houses chose to release their best wines as Vintage Port. This widespread declaration underscores the exceptional reputation of the harvest in the Douro, while each producer maintains its own style and selection.<\/p>\n
2016 was a remarkable year for this vineyard. According to Dirk Niepoort, the Pisca grapes were harvested in three stages: before the rain, at the onset of the rain, and afterward. The grapes produced a remarkably concentrated Port. Even more exceptional is that Niepoort did not release a regular, blended Vintage Port in 2016, but instead declared this Bioma. This allowed the unique character of Vinha da Pisca to take center stage.<\/p>\n
The whole grape clusters were foot-crushed in Vale de Mendiz using traditional lagares. After fermentation and fortification, the wine was transferred to Quinta de N\u00e1poles, where it aged in cool cellars in traditional wooden pipas holding approximately 550 liters. Bioma spends more time in wood than a classic Vintage Port and was bottled in the third year after the harvest. This method harkens back to earlier Port traditions.<\/p>\n
The 2016 vintage displays a deep purplish-red color and aromas of blackberries, plums, black pepper, and spices. Its powerful tannins are balanced by remarkable freshness. It is a concentrated Port with the potential for long-term bottle aging. Store it in a cool, dark place; when opening, decant it gently to remove any sediment. Serve it with blue cheese or enjoy it on its own.<\/p>\n