- Robert Parker (RP) points 94
- Vinous points
Niepoort - Batuta
Vintage
2022
Size
75 cl
Price
€94.80 ex. VAT
In stockIn stock
Tasting notes
My first encounter with the 2022 Batuta was in the context of a vertical tasting of all vintages produced since 1999, all except 2002 and 2006. The previous year, the 2021, is a hard act to follow, as it is clearly the finest vintage to date (seen in the complete context). But the 2022 kept the poise and balance and comes through as terribly balanced, elegant and fresh, a triumph over the adverse, extremely hot and dry, natural conditions of the year. It's from all north-facing vineyards, and the dates of the harvest have been fine-tuned; some very long macerations of some lots (up to six months!) have added finesse to the tannins. I tasted it again a few months later with the full portfolio of Douro wines, and the herbal side seemed more obvious. It has a contained 12.5% alcohol and is perfumed and floral, complex, spicy and herbal, with some earthy/mineral notes and refined and elegant tannins. There's balance, freshness and elegance here. They managed to produce 13,000 bottles. There was a big change in 2018, when they started using two vineyards that they ferment with a very long maceration. This should age nicely in bottle.
In the vertical tasting, I liked the vintages 2021, 2014 and 2004, and the surprises were the 2000 (much better than expected) and the 2011 (very fresh for a very warm year). Unfortunately, the 1999 was cooked and the 2001 was corked, but it's one of the finest vintages. The style gradually changed with some breakthrough changes in 2008, 2014 and 2018.
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About this wine
Niepoort - Batuta
If you're looking for a wine that's rich in history and flavour, look no further than Niepoort - Batuta. This wine is produced by one of the oldest and most respected wine producers in Portugal, and it's made from a blend of traditional grape varieties that have been carefully selected to create a wine that's both complex and delicious.
The taste profile of Niepoort - Batuta is truly exceptional. It's a full-bodied wine with a deep, rich colour and a complex aroma that's full of dark fruit, spice, and earthy notes. On the palate, you'll taste a range of flavours, including blackberry, black cherry, and plum, as well as hints of vanilla, tobacco, and leather. The tannins are firm and well-structured, giving the wine a long, smooth finish that's both satisfying and memorable.
But Niepoort - Batuta isn't just a great wine because of its taste. It's also steeped in history and tradition. The Niepoort family has been producing wine in Portugal for over 150 years, and they're known for their commitment to quality and innovation. They use traditional winemaking techniques, but they're also constantly experimenting with new methods and grape varieties to create wines that are truly unique.
So where should you enjoy a bottle of Niepoort - Batuta? This wine is perfect for special occasions, whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday or a romantic anniversary. It's also a great choice for a dinner party, where it will pair beautifully with rich, flavourful dishes like roast beef or lamb. And if you're looking for a wine to enjoy on a quiet evening at home, Niepoort - Batuta is the perfect choice. Just pour yourself a glass, sit back, and savour the rich, complex flavours of this exceptional wine.
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Behind the bottle
Region
Douro
The Douro Valley in northern Portugal stands as one of the world's oldest demarcated wine regions, officially established in 1756. Located along the Douro River as it winds from the Spanish border toward Porto, this UNESCO World…
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