Vintage Port 1987 1987

Wine Description for Vintage Port 1987 from Niepoort

Character

The Niepoort Vintage Port 1987 represents a classic vintage from the Douro Valley, which today, after more than three decades of bottle maturation, unfolds its full complexity. With 20.5% alcohol and pronounced residual sweetness, this Port displays the characteristic concentration and longevity for which the house of Niepoort has been renowned since 1842. 1987 was not a declared top vintage for the entire region, making this Port an individual house decision – typical of Niepoort’s independent philosophy, which follows its own quality standards rather than mainstream trends.

Terroir & Origin

The Douro Valley with its steep slate terraces provides the foundation for this extraordinary sweet wine. The extreme temperature fluctuations between day and night, the sparse soils and the laborious hand work in the ancient vineyards shape its character. Niepoort traditionally sources its grapes from small parcels in the finest vineyard sites, often from ancient, mixed-planted vineyards that bring natural complexity.

Grape Varieties & Vinification

The classic blend of Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and Tinto Cão forms the backbone of this Vintage Port. Touriga Franca contributes structure and floral notes, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) brings fruit and body, whilst the rare Tinto Cão provides elegance and ageing potential. Vinification follows traditional methods with foot treading in lagares and the interruption of fermentation through the addition of brandy. Decades of bottle maturation have developed tertiary aromas that have taken the wine far beyond its initial fruitiness.

Food Pairing Suggestions

A mature Vintage Port of this calibre harmonises beautifully with Stilton or other blue cheeses, dark chocolate with high cocoa content or nut desserts. Equally classic: roasted walnuts or figs. The wine’s complexity also makes it an excellent meditative wine to enjoy after dinner.