TN: 2007 Niepoort Batuta Douro red

[Rune EG]

Decanted 6 hrs which seemed good for this bottle. Dark purple colour. Subdued complex well-structured aroma of berries, leather and minerals/soil. Full body. Powerful and elegant at start, then minerals and tannins are coming on in a heavy way. But the tannins are polished and nicely integrated in the wine. The wine is “floating” through the mouth and is well-balanced acidity/sweetness. Hints of currant towards the end. Tough towards the end. Long aftertaste. 95 pts.

[David Spriggs]

Thanks for the note! I have an unopened case, so I guess I should open one and see how they are doing.

[Frederick Blais]

I think this 2007 is on its plateau atm, really showing well and for at least another 10 years. 2008 is still a youngster and more vibrant compare to this one and will go for many more years!

[David Spriggs]

I finally opened my case and you are spot on. The wine is ready to drink. Thanks!

[Andy Velebil]

I think this 2007 is on its plateau atm, really showing well and for at least another 10 years. 2008 is still a youngster and more vibrant compare to this one and will go for many more years!

Lately I’ve been trying older Douro wines from my stash. I’ve come to the conclusion that some of the “great” Douro wine years, like 2004 and 2007, are not holding up as well as some less heralded years, like 2005 and 2008.

I’d be curious if what was thought to make great Douro wines by winemakers has changed?


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[Frederick Blais]

Haven't got any bad 2004 yet, but some 2007 are either not aging well or in a bad phase. I've always been a fan of 2005, I recently opened a Casal de Loivois and it was gorgeous! Even the simple Vertente is doing well, much better than 2007.

[David Spriggs]

I agree with the vintage assessment. 2005 is a stand out vintage. I have drunk up most of my 2004s. I still have small quantities of 2004 Crasto Ponte, Vale Meao, Batuta, Charme. Oh! And a shout out for the wonderful 2004 Quinta do Mourão.Douro Rio Bom Grande Reserva. I drank the 2005s too soon!