Sparkling Elegance from Bairrada’s Star Grape
Who says a red grape can’t make a white sparkling wine?
Introducing the 2018 Água Viva Baga, a sparkling delight crafted by Niepoort at Quinta de Baixo. With zero-dosage finesse, this bubbly beauty showcases Dirk Niepoort’s passion for the Bairrada region and its flagship grape, Baga. The result? A vibrant, terroir-driven sparkling wine that’s as lively as its name suggests — “Living Water” for your glass!
The 2017 season in Bairrada was all about extremes, with a dry winter and an intense summer. Thanks to the low humidity, the vines thrived, producing pristine fruit that needed minimal intervention. Harvesting kicked off early, starting on 17 August, wrapping up by 19 September. Crafted using the traditional “Cuvée” method, this sparkling Baga was fermented with native yeasts and aged on fine lees for an impressive 48 months, enhancing its depth and complexity. Disgorged in October 2022, it’s a refined, unfiltered masterpiece.
Tasting Note: This vintage of Água Viva Baga sparkles with a deeper salmon hue, thanks to its Baga origins. The mousse is fine and persistent, releasing an expressive nose of wild berries like cherry and redcurrant, mingled with delicate floral notes and fresh herbs. A hint of brioche and hazelnut adds a savoury touch. On the palate, it’s a masterclass in balance, with a crisp acidity offset by subtle bitterness, creating a symphony of structure and elegance. Expect a lingering, zesty finish that leaves you craving more.
Origin: Bairrada, Portugal
Alcohol: 11.5%
Blend: Baga
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