Niepoort : Charme 2024

Characteristics and tasting notes of the Niepoort Charme 2024

Tasting

Appearance
A vibrant ruby colour, characteristic of its non-oxidative winemaking.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet is complex, marked by red fruit aromas and subtle woody notes, while offering a slightly reductive and rustic profile.

Palate
The palate reveals balanced acidity and a supple structure. The fine, moderate tannins accompany a beautiful expression of fruit.

Food and wine pairings
This red wine pairs wonderfully with flavourful meats such as braised or roasted beef, as well as game like venison scented with thyme or juniper. It also goes very well with lighter proteins such as pork or salmon, charcuterie boards, aged cheeses (Parmesan, Gouda, Manchego), or a mushroom risotto and pasta dishes with meat sauce.

Serving and ageing
With its supple structure and lovely acidity, this Niepoort Charme 2024 can be enjoyed in its youth while also possessing the potential for extended cellar ageing.

The elegance of a great Douro wine by Niepoort

The estate
Founded in 1842, the Niepoort House is a true institution whose historic cellars are located in Vila Nova de Gaia. Initially a négociant, this family-owned company has transformed into a leading producer in the Duriense region. Now led by Dirk Niepoort (fifth generation) and his son Daniel, the current winemaker, the estate perpetuates the craftsmanship of Port wines while creating contemporary table wines. This prestigious brand stands out for its deep commitment to sustainable, biodynamic viticulture that respects its terroir.

The vineyard
The grapes come from the Vale de Mendiz valley, located on the banks of the Pinhão in the Cima Corgo sub-region, at the heart of the Douro. This exceptional terroir is characterised by mineral-rich schist soils and very old vines, averaging between 70 and over 100 years of age. Planted at altitudes ranging from 100 to 500 metres, the vineyard benefits from cooler conditions that preserve the natural acidity and aromatic complexity of the berries.

The vintage
The year was marked in Portugal by particular climatic conditions, notably three heatwaves that occurred in July. These episodes led to a slight drop in yields while encouraging a beautiful concentration of flavours in the berries, without excessively raising alcohol levels.

Winemaking and ageing
To craft this Niepoort Charme 2024, the harvest is carried out by hand with rigorous sorting. The whole bunches, retaining about 30% of their stems, are foot-trodden in traditional granite lagares. Fermentation begins naturally thanks to indigenous yeasts. The wine is then transferred to French oak barrels to complete its malolactic fermentation, before benefiting from fifteen months of ageing. Bottling takes place without any fining or mechanical filtration.

Grape varieties
This blend is predominantly composed of Tinta Roriz and Touriga Franca, complemented by other traditional Portuguese varieties.