One of Niepoort’s most sought-after and distinctive white wines, “Coche” brings together the character of the Douro Valley with the complexity and elegance associated with Burgundy. It is made from grapes grown on old vines, over 80 years of age, at high altitudes in mica-schist soils. The vineyards are home to varieties such as ‘Rabigato’, ‘Códega do Larinho’ and ‘Arinto’, among others, with the winemakers’ aim being to create a wine that is rich yet fresh, precise and capable of long-term ageing.
The nose reveals layers of toasted sesame seeds, crushed stone and subtle reductive notes, complemented by aromas of mandarin zest, peach, apricot and flowers. The palate is deep and textured, yet precise: the richness of ripe fruit is balanced by bright acidity, a saline impression and the minerality characteristic of the region’s schist soils. The long, refreshing finish captures the wine’s distinctive character – not only a rich and complex white wine, but also one with a finely balanced structure and excellent ageing potential.
The wine’s complexity is shaped by fermentation in French oak barrels and extended ageing. For the 2024 vintage, 228-litre barrels were used, approximately 20% of which were new.
Serve at a temperature of 12–14 °C with grilled fish, white meat, cheese casseroles, or risotto, as well as with vegetable lasagna and stuffed portobello mushrooms.
Niepoort – A Fusion of Portuguese Wine Tradition and Innovation
Niepoort is one of Portugal’s most iconic and highly respected wine producers, crafting outstanding Port wines as well as still wines from the Douro, Dão and Bairrada regions since 1842. A family-owned winery, Niepoort is defined by vision, respect for tradition, courage, curiosity and a restless drive to explore. These qualities have shaped the Niepoort family journey for generations.
The results are born of meticulous work, but also of a constant desire for innovation, rooted in collaboration and generational dialogue. Throughout Niepoort’s history, two generations have always worked side by side. Today, the fifth and sixth generations continue this tradition, earning international acclaim for their ability to unite deep-rooted winemaking heritage with a modern, creative approach to wine.
Douro Valley – A Unique Terroir and a Home of Sustainable Winemaking
Niepoort wines originate in one of Europe’s oldest and most dramatic wine regions – the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, schist (xisto) soils, steep mountainous landscapes and the river-shaped microclimate create ideal conditions for producing wines of character, depth and complexity.
Niepoort places strong emphasis on sustainable viticulture. Many vineyards are farmed according to organic or biodynamic principles, and winemaking is carried out with minimal intervention. Old vines, careful hand harvesting and natural fermentations allow each vintage to express its true and authentic character.
Masters of Port – And Much More
While Niepoort is globally renowned for producing some of the world’s finest Port wines, the estate is equally celebrated for its dry red and white wines, admired for their freshness, elegance and remarkable ageing potential. Iconic labels such as Redoma, Batuta, Vertente and Coche showcase the Douro’s ability to produce world-class wines beyond fortified styles.
Every bottle is a reflection of a deep connection to the land, respect for history and an unrelenting passion for experimentation.
A Philosophy Driven by Curiosity and Craft
For Niepoort, winemaking is not just about theory or technology, but about doing what you love, without fear of making mistakes. Experimenting, refining and reinventing until balance is achieved – always with respect for terroir and the wisdom of previous generations.
“It’s not machines that make the difference, but our minds.”
This is how Dirk Niepoort continues to champion Portuguese wines on the international stage: by caring for old vineyards and exploring the full potential of indigenous grape varieties. Step into the world of Niepoort – where tradition and innovation walk hand in hand.
