Niepoort Charme 2023

Niepoort has been an independent family business since its founding in 1842. The winery is currently led by the fifth generation, Dirk Niepoort, supported by his sons Daniel and Marco. 

Dirk has always been a tireless innovator and creative force. One of Dirk's early priorities was to purchase parcels of old, steep (often north-facing) vineyards in the Douro region to have greater control over grape supply. Quinta de Nápoles was acquired in 1987 with thirty hectares, followed by the nine-hectare Quinta do Carril in 1988. Today, Niepoort owns over eighty hectares of organically farmed vineyards in the Douro.

Niepoort's "Charme" wine is all about elegance and balance, achieved through meticulous attention to detail throughout the winemaking process. Charme is fermented in traditional stone lagares with 100% grape stems, using grapes from very old vineyards in Vale de Mendiz, on the banks of the Pinhão river.

Tasting notes: Charme has a lively, pale colour reminiscent of Burgundian Pinot Noir. The nose reveals the complexity of the grape varieties and old vines, starting with floral notes followed by fleeting graphite nuances over a base of raspberry and rhubarb. The oak is incredibly discreet, balanced by minty aromas that further elevate the wine's sophistication. On the palate, Charme impresses with outstanding elegance, precision, a delicate structure, and superb acidity, finishing long with persistent spice and freshness. It pairs ideally with mushrooms and game dishes like partridge or pheasant.