2009 Robustus
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Tasting notes
The 2009 Robustus is typically the winery's most unusual red. It is a field blend aged in 2,000-liter vats for 49 months. It comes in at 13.5% alcohol. In theory, it's a big, big wine--hence the name--but everything is relative as Niepoort always leans to elegance, even with this. The mid-palate is gracefully constructed, which is no surprise, because that is Niepoort. If it is denser than some in the Niepoort stable, it still seems graceful compared to what many other producers offered in this big vintage. It tightens considerably on the finish, showing fine structure to go with the beautiful fruit. It is simply bursting with flavor, too. Despite the long oak treatment--but not in small barrels--this is surprisingly fresh. It is a wine you can admire and drink effortlessly at the table, too. As understated as it seemed on opening, it kept getting better over several hours. There are hidden layers here. This is a late release and quite approachable now, but it will also continue to age well. There were 8,000 bottles produced.
Critic scores
Average Score
Mark Squires
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Only just bottled. Bright crimson. Great life. Complete and wonderfully broad across the palate. Hint of tobacco savour and hugely appetising. Long and complete. Bravo! (JR)
The 2009 Robustus is typically the winery's most unusual red. It is a field blend aged in 2,000-liter vats for 49 months. It comes in at 13.5% alcohol. In theory, it's a big, big wine--hence the name--but everything is relative as Niepoort always leans to elegance, even with this. The mid-palate is gracefully constructed, which is no surprise, because that is Niepoort. If it is denser than some in the Niepoort stable, it still seems graceful compared to what many other producers offered in this big vintage. It tightens considerably on the finish, showing fine structure to go with the beautiful fruit. It is simply bursting with flavor, too. Despite the long oak treatment--but not in small barrels--this is surprisingly fresh. It is a wine you can admire and drink effortlessly at the table, too. As understated as it seemed on opening, it kept getting better over several hours. There are hidden layers here. This is a late release and quite approachable now, but it will also continue to age well. There were 8,000 bottles produced. Mar 2016, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Product details
Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca/Touriga Francesa, Tinta Barroca, Tempranillo, Other
Red
Dry