Cerceal

The white grape variety Cerceal is one of the silent architects of the great white wines of central Portugal, particularly in the Dão. It is characterised by a vibrant, fine acid structure and a salty mineral note that bestows a long life upon the wines. In the glass, it reveals cool citrus notes, green apple and wet stones – a subtle profile that only gains deep complexity with the years. Cerceal usually functions as an indispensable backbone-provider in classic cuvées, where it lends structure to partners like Encruzado and Bical. It pairs outstandingly with grilled fish, seafood or salty starters.

How harmoniously this interplay matures is demonstrated by the historic approach of Niepoort. In the Quinta da Lomba Branco Garrafeira, Cerceal is woven together with Encruzado and Bical into a profound white wine that masterfully conveys the cool elegance of the Dão.