Niepoort Coche Branco 2019

The 2019 growing year was relatively dry. Spring started off with high temperatures which then dropped, remaining low during the whole summer. Some rainfall occurred at the exact time of budbreak, and flowering took place under excellent weather conditions, leading to medium to high yields and healthy berries. The mild days and cool nights of the month of August allowed for slow and balanced ripening. With a character reminiscent of great Burgundies and a production of a mere 4700 bottles, the Coche is Niepoort’s most sought-after white wine. When it comes to its aromatic profile, our aim is to complement the fruitiness with the complexity provided by an ageing period in wood (in lightly toasted, first-fill French barrels from the François Freres cooperage). On the nose, this barrel maturation makes itself felt through notes of hazelnuts and brioche which also mingle beautifully with the wine’s primary fruity aromas of yellow plums, peaches, citrus fruit and some vegetal hints. The palate boasts a structure not unlike that of a great Burgundy, with an elegance, moderate alcohol and deep aromatic complexity. A long and lingering finish is supported by a beautiful acidity which promises great cellaring potential.