"This white wine is aged in stainless steel, and combines three grape varieties: Verdelho, Terrantez from the island of Pico, and Arinto from other Azores islands.The label features the island’s most iconic natural phenomenon – Mount Pico. After all, our aim with this project is to reflect the peak potential of this island (“pico” means “peak”). Of course, this is a challenge and a journey, but we love embarking on new journeys, and challenge is our second name! The vineyards grow at high altitudes and, true to Niepoort’s style, are harvested a little earlier than would be usual for the island.The grapes used for the Niepoort Açores undergo a gentle whole-bunch pressing. After being left to settle for 12 hours, the must is transferred to stainless steel fermentation tanks (75% in vertical tanks and 25% in horizontal tanks). The wine ferments spontaneously under controlled temperatures before spending 22 months maturing in stainless steel tanks. As the wine was partially aged in wood, it displays a golden yellow hue. On the nose, you can detect the iodine notes of the ocean as well as aromas of citrus, apricot, and spices such as vanilla bean. Its palate offers beautiful structure, a fuller body than one would expect, and an acidity which balances out the wine’s almost salty finish."- Winery