Niepoort : Charme 2023

Characteristics and tasting advice for Niepoort's Charme 2023

Tasting

Embodying Dirk Niepoort's personal vision, inspired by his passion for Burgundy, this cuvée seduces with its refinement, its aromatic richness, and its silky tannins.

Food and wine pairings
This wine pairs perfectly with creamy white meats and mushrooms, as well as game birds such as partridge or pheasant.

The elegance and complexity of a Douro wine

The estate
Founded in 1842 by Franciscus Marius van der Niepoort, the Niepoort house is a pillar of Portuguese wine, today led by Dirk Niepoort, representing the fifth generation. Located in the Douro wine region, also known as Duriense, Niepoort stands out for its ability to marry tradition and innovation. With vineyards spread across several Portuguese regions, the house values ancient grape varieties and sustainable viticultural practices.

The vineyard
The only still wine produced within the estate, "Charme" comes from old vines aged 70 to 100 years, located at altitude along the Pinhão river. These plots, among the coolest in the Douro, benefit from a particular microclimate that gives the wine its characteristic finesse.

The vintage
The year 2023 started under very good auspices, with a rainy winter that allowed to replenish water reserves after a particularly dry year. Spring was relatively warm and dry, followed by a summer with normal temperatures. The harvest at Vale de Mendiz began under intense heat on August 24 and ended on September 26.

Vinification and aging
Handpicked harvest. Short maceration and a fermentation starting in the lagares in granien barrels before continuing in French oak barrels. The aging continues for 15 months in these same barrels.

Blend
Tinta roriz and touriga franca make up the base of the blend, complemented by other traditional Portuguese grape varieties in smaller proportions.