Niepoort Tiara 2021 White

The Tiara is a light white wine whose elegance, firm grip and vibrant energy bear witness to its origin: high-altitude sites belonging solely to Niepoort, planted with vines older than 60 years. The vineyards are situated at 600 metres above sea level, and Códega do Larinho is the predominant grape variety. As it is fermented with natural yeasts, the wine retains its fresh and elegant character.

The vintage presented us with very favourable weather conditions: plenty of sunshine and warmth but without too much moisture, ideal for even growth. One of this year’s peculiarities was the vines’ ability to remain hydrated during the ripening stage. At the end of August and beginning September the basal leaves were still moist and green, the berries well-hydrated and the grape skins thick and firm.

The vines from which the Tiara was crafted were harvested mid-September. The grapes were transported to the cellar under temperature-controlled conditions and pressed during the night. The must was left to settle for 24 hours before being left to ferment in large wooden vats at temperatures of 8°C to 13°C. The wine fermented for a whole year and underwent malolactic fermentation.
Tasting Notes

Tiara displays a beautiful crystalline colour. Its aromatic profile is more restrained and austere than in previous vintages, but offers plenty of complexity and depth thanks to its long fermentation period in the wooden vats. Subtle but very elegant, the wine is superbly balanced with notes of white fruit and fresh herbs against a mineral backdrop. The palate boasts an impressive structure complemented by a vibrant acidity which gives a delicate, light wine with great precision. The finish is very long and full of minerality. This is a wine which can be enjoyed in its youth to experience its vibrant energy, but it also promises to develop beautifully in bottle.