One bottle of Niepoort Port
1952 vintage
Porto, Portugal
In original wooden case
Original filling quantity: 0.75 l
Fill level: into neck

This lot comprises one original wooden case with one bottle of 1952 vintage Niepoort Port. This port was bottled in 1955 and decanted in 1987.

Port is an absolute classic of the wine world that originates from the Douro Valley. Vines for red and white port grow on impressive slate terraces on the vertiginous, steep slopes along the Rio Douro. The history of the vine-growing region stretches far back into antiquity. Some of the archaic wine production methods of that time remain unchanged: in Lagares, for example, grapes are still pressed manually, by foot. Over 80 different vine types may be used for the wine – another archaic feature, namely genetic abundance in the vineyard instead of vine purity. Port itself only came about during the 17th century, when British wine merchants began looking for a strong, transportable wine. Due to this, the fermentation process of the wines was halted with strong brandy, thereby preserving its natural sweetness. The methods used in creating port have changed very little to this day. Port wines are very sweet early on and have a high alcohol and tannin content. They require a lot of time to refine their flavor, which accounts for the number of different ripening methods from which various port styles developed. The most important ripening method is Tawny: the finest Tawny is ripened in barrels for over 6 years, then bottled and sold. It stands out due to its fine aroma that ages well and contains hints of nut and almond. Vintage port remains the most prominent port style, however. These wines are only created during special years, from a single vintage. After maturing in a barrel for two to three years, they are bottled and sold. However, they are still a long way off their optimal maturity and require decades of storage. After about 30 to 40 years, the wines reach their peak, which lasts for many years. Great vintage ports transcend time and perishability thanks to their longevity.

Port takes its name from the Portuguese city of Porto, which it has been associated with for hundreds of years. Traditionally, the most important port wine houses and merchants have been based here for centuries. Wines from the Douro valley are also brought here and stored and matured in the lodges of port houses in Villa Nova de Gaia.

The fill level is excellent (into neck). The label shows signs of age. The capsule and original wooden case are in perfect condition.