TN: 2006 Niepoort Redoma Douro

[Otto Nieminen]

Niepoort Redoma Tinto 2006 - 14,2% abv; 30,50€

A field blend of Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela, Tinta Francisca and Sousão from 60-120yo vines grown on a north-facing slope in the valley of Pinhão. This spent 20 months in small, French barrels of which 60% were new.

I loved the '95 of this wine for its vibrant, lively and rustic personality. There is no shared personality between that wine and this '06! This smells of vanilla and toffee with sweet red fruit and nothing of that brambly savouryness and rusticity of the '95. I know it might be heresy to say so, but I did prefer the unique personality of the earlier wine to this - quite frankly - anonymous scent. (I hate myself for saying this because Dirk is one of the nicest wine personalities I have met and it is never a pleasant thing to give negative feedback on such a person's wine.)

Gladly the palate gave some hope that I was just drinking this at an awkward time (but not enough hope that I would purchase more). The oak wasn't as noticeable and it was vibrant and refreshing. Neither the high alcohol nor the ripe fruit caused any cloying sensations.

It seems very "modern" in style and certainly will appeal to those who like the slick, smooth style. I wanted a different personality.

[Clark Anderson]

Great description. Great writing.
Much thanks for sharing.





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Clark Montecristo Cigars Anderson