Niepoort - Quinado 500ml

Niepoort Quinado is a unique fortified wine from Portugal, produced by the renowned Niepoort family. It's crafted by blending young Port wines with older, more mature ones, often sourced from different vintages. This blending technique imparts a complex and layered flavor profile to the Quinado.

The grapes used for Quinado are primarily indigenous Portuguese varieties like Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão. These grapes are grown in the steep, terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, where they benefit from the region's warm, dry climate and nutrient-rich schist soils.

After harvest, the grapes are crushed and fermented in traditional stone lagares, where they are trodden by foot. The resulting wine is fortified with brandy to halt fermentation and preserve its sweetness. This fortified wine is aged in oak barrels for several years, developing its characteristic amber color and complex aromas of dried fruits, nuts, and spices.

Quinado is distinct from traditional Port in that it is often flavored with quinine, a bitter compound derived from the cinchona tree. This addition provides a unique, slightly bitter note that complements the wine's sweetness and richness.

The resulting wine is a complex and intriguing beverage with a rich, velvety texture and a long, lingering finish. It can be enjoyed independently or paired with desserts, cheeses, or nuts. Niepoort's Quinado is a testament to the family's commitment to quality and innovation, offering a distinctive drinking experience.