
- Dirk Niepoort, long a fan of Barriada and its native grapes, joined winemaker Sérgio Silva at Quinta de Baixo in 2012.
- Niepoort and Silva converted the estate to Biodynamic viticulture, reinforcing a deep connection between soil, plant, and climate.
- The vineyards focus on classic Bairrada varieties: Baga for reds and Bical and Maria Gomes for whites.
- Red wines are crafted using whole clusters and stems to produce lighter, more elegant expressions of Baga—showcasing concentration and depth without heavy extraction or elevated alcohol levels.
- Quinta de Baixo, under Niepoort’s stewardship, has become a benchmark for the new Bairrada, as thoughtful farming and minimal intervention reveals the full potential of this unique terroir.
Quinta de Baixo is a 25-hectare estate nestled in the heart of Bairrada, where limestone-rich calcareous soils lend precision, energy, and structure to its wines. Originally acquired in 2006 by winemaker Sérgio Silva, the estate underwent a major transformation when Dirk Niepoort joined in 2012, bringing new vision and momentum to the project.
Niepoort's arrival marked a turning point for Quinta de Baixo, allowing for long-envisioned changes to take root—most notably, a full conversion to Biodynamic viticulture. To lead this transition, the estate brought in the late Andrew Lorand, a pioneer in biodynamics, who lived on-site from 2013 to 2014 to train and guide the team. Thanks to this intensive effort, all of the estate’s vineyards are now farmed according to Biodynamic principles, reinforcing a deep connection between soil, plant, and climate.
The vineyards focus on native Bairrada varieties: Baga for reds and Bical and Maria Gomes for whites. Vinification at Quinta de Baixo is driven by restraint and a respect for the grapes. Red wines incorporate whole clusters and stems to create lighter, more elegant expressions of Baga—wines with concentration and depth, but without excessive extraction or alcohol.
Quinta de Baixo stands today as a benchmark for the new Bairrada—honoring tradition while embracing forward-thinking practices. Under the stewardship of Niepoort, the estate has become a model for how thoughtful farming and minimal intervention can unlock the full potential of this unique terroir.