Niepoort - Charme

After an experimental edition in 2000, Charme 2002 is released. 2002 was a difficult but generous year. Charme is elegant and smooth and quite distinct in style from Batuta. Old vineyards from Vale de Mendiz in the Pinhão Valley are a key element for Charme. These small, sheltered vineyards with low production are skilled for elegant wines with mature tannins. The early harvest is crucial for a wine like Charme, because on one hand it's difficult to get hold of the production of these precious and rare vines and, on the other hand, the harvest must be at the optimal maturation point. These details make the production of Charme a risky challenge but it also makes the wine so unique and rare.

Vinification

After the manual harvest and the strict selection of the grapes, Charme ferments in a traditional stone Lagar with all the stems. After a short maceration (like in the Port Wine), the vinification is completed in new French oak casks. The wine stays in this oak for 15 months also for malolactic fermentation.

Tasting Notes

Impressive, generous aroma with concentrated fruit balanced with elegant notes of tea and tobacco. Velvet, with mature tannins with smooth red fruits. Structured and complete and with great freshness. Finishes slowly and persistent with coffee and mokka.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000
Pruning Method: Double Guyot
Altitude (m): 350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Stone lagares
Bottled: July 2005
Ageing: 15 month in french oak casks (228l)
Alcohol (%): 13.45
pH: 3.69
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.3
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 39
Production: 4.500 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

2003 was a very hot and dry year, so we decided not to produce Charme. Chame 2004 is the second edition of this rare and elegant wine. Though the year was equally dry, the rain that fell in August allowed finding the perfect stage of maturation. Various old vines in Vale de Mendiz, in Pinhão valley are the key element for the production of Charme. These small, sheltered vineyards with low production are skilled for elegant wines with soft tannins. Every detail in Charme making allow obtaining this such rare and unique wine.

Vinification

After the manual harvest and the strict selection of the grapes, Charme ferments in a traditional stone lagar with all the stems. After a short maceration (like in the Port Wine), the fermentation is completed in French oak casks. The wine aged in the same casks, during 15 months, where also occurred the malolactic fermentation.

Tasting Notes

Very expressive wine, concentrated aroma and balanced fruit, with elegant notes of tea and tobacco. Involving in the tasting, very aromatic, with evident fruit but great complexity. Good structure with soft tannins and appellative freshness; a very long and persistent finish with coffee and mokka notes.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000
Pruning Method: Double Guyot
Altitude (m): 350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Stone lagares
Bottled: April 2006
Ageing: 15 months in barrels
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 27.8
Alcohol (%): 13.5
pH: 3.71
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 4.99
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.66
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 17
Production: 4.500 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is an elegant wine with mature tannins. Small details make the production of Charme a risky challenge but it also makes the wine so unique and rare. Small, sheltered vineyards with low production from Vale de Mendiz in the Pinhão Valley are the key element for Charme.

Vinification

Old vineyards from Vale de Mendiz in the Pinhão Valley are a key element for Charme. These small, sheltered vineyards with low production are skilled for elegant wines with mature tannins. 2005 harvest of Charme was done early in September to avoid high alcohol content and low acidity. Rigorous selection was done in vineyard and winery. This wine is fermented in traditional granite lagars, with all stems. After a short maceration in lagar, the end of alcoholic and all malolactic fermentation was done in French oak barrels. The wine stays in barrel during 16 months.

Tasting Notes

Impressive wine, generous aroma with concentrated fresh fruit, balanced with elegant notes of tea, tobacco and dry balsamic herbs. Velvet, with mature tannins with smooth red fruits. Structured wine with great complexity and freshness. Long and persistent with coffee and moka notes.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: April 2007
Ageing: 16 month in french oak casks
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 25.7
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 1.6
Alcohol (%): 13.45
pH: 3.69
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 4.36
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.62
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 30
Production: 3.600 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is an elegant wine with mature tannins. Small details make the production of Charme a risky challenge, but it also makes the wine so unique and rare. Small, sheltered vineyards with low production from Vale de Mendiz in the Pinhão Valley are the key elements for Charme.

Vinification

Old vineyards from Vale de Mendiz in the Pinhão Valley are a key element for Charme. These small, sheltered vineyards with low production are the essences for elegant wines with mature tannins. The 2006 harvest of Charme was made early in September to avoid high alcohol content and low acidity. Rigorous selection was done in the vineyard and winery. The wine is fermented in traditional granite lagars, with all the stems. After a short maceration in lagar, the end of alcoholic and the malolactic fermentation was carried out in French oak barrels. The wine remains in barrel for 19 months.

Tasting Notes

Light in color, fresh and vibrant. Charme 2006 is particularly refined, elegant and expressive.

It has a lot of complexity and a long finish.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: July 2008
Ageing: 19 month in french oak casks
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 26.2
Alcohol (%): 13.91
pH: 3.6
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.22
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.56
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 26
Production: 3.600 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is a rare wine from the Douro. The way its elegance combines with the smooth and mature tannins are unique in expressing old sheltered vineyards from Vale Mendiz in the heart of the Douro area in the Pinhão Valley. All the small details involving the production of Charme turn the final result difficult to achieve. In the end only the best barrels are chosen to be bottled as Charme.

Vinification

2007 was an excellent year for the Douro wine region, rains occurred during spring and the beginning of summer, allowing soils to maintain good water levels until harvest. Also low yields, due mainly to rain during flowering season and some mildew present in the vineyards, were very important to obtain such quality fruit with great acidity and balanced sugar contents.

Harvest occurred during September with very good weather conditions, clusters were selected both in the vineyard and in winery, and fermentation was done in traditional stone lagares, foot trodden, with all the stems. After a short maceration, alcoholic and malolactic fermentations were finished in French oak barrels, where the wine was aged for 16 months. Bottling was done without any fining or filtration.

Tasting Notes

A rich, fresh and elegant wine, light in colour, with fresh cherry and macerated raspberry aromas, earthy notes of mushrooms and truffles. Elegant notes of tea leaves and pipe tobacco and cigar. The taste is fresh, long, with very good structure, velvety tannins and great complexity of mineral notes and fresh fruit flavours. Great intensity and persistence.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: April 2009
Ageing: 16 month in french oak casks
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 22.5
Alcohol (%): 13.89
pH: 3.68
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 4.47
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 20
Production: 9.500 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is a rare wine from the Douro, which goes against modern tendencies, its elegance and complexity combined with the smooth tannins are unique in expressing old sheltered vineyards from Vale Mendiz in the heart of the Douro area in the Pinhão Valley. All the small details involving the production of Charme turn the final result very difficult to achieve. In the end, only the best barrels are chosen to be bottled as Charme.

Vinification

2008 was an excellent year for the Douro wine region, rains occurred during spring and beginning of summer, allowing soils to maintain good water levels until harvest. Low yields, due mainly to rain during flowering season, were also very important to obtain quality fruit with great acidity and balanced sugar contents.

Harvest occurred during September with very good weather conditions. Bunches were selected both in the vineyard and in the winery and fermentation was done in traditional stone lagares with foot trodden, and all the stems. After a short maceration, alcoholic and malolactic fermentations were finished in French oak barrels, where the wine was aged for 16 months. Bottling was done without any fining or filtration.

Tasting Notes

A rich, fresh and elegant wine, light in colour, with fresh cherry and pine needle aromas, earthy notes of mushrooms and truffles and elegant notes of tea leaves and pipe tobacco. The taste is fresh, long, with very good structure, velvety tannins and great complexity of mineral notes along with fresh fruit flavours, contributing with great tension for an intense, persistent and long lasting wine.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: April 2010
Ageing: 16 month in french oak casks
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 22.5
Alcohol (%): 13.89
pH: 3.68
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 4.47
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 20
Production: 9.500 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is a rare wine from the Douro. Its elegance and complexity, combined with the smooth tannins are a unique way of expressing the old sheltered vineyards from Vale Mendiz in the Pinhão Valley, the heart of the Douro region. All the small details that make this great wine turn the final result very difficult to achieve. In the end only the best barrels are chosen to be bottled as Charme.

Vinification

2009 was a very fresh year until the beginning of August. A good amount of water in the soil and a cold weather, unusual in the Douro Valley were leading us to a long maturation season. But incredible high temperatures from 12th of August onwards resulted in a very fast maturation process all over the region. Harvest started earlier, in the beginning of September.

Fermentation was done in traditional stone lagares, foot trodden, with all the stems. After a short maceration, alcoholic and malolactic fermentations were finished in French oak barrels, where the wine aged for 14 months. Bottling was done without any fining or filtration

Tasting Notes

Darker in color than the previous edition, Charme 2009 maintains its richness, freshness and elegance, with cherry, plums and pine needles aromas, earthy notes of mushrooms and truffles and elegant notes of tea leaves. The palate is long and fresh with good structure supported by soft tannins, mineral notes involving fruit and contributing to a very long, intense lasting finish.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: March 2011
Ageing: 14 month in french oak casks
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 26.8
Alcohol (%): 14
pH: 3.74
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.02
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 24
Production: 9.900 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is a rare wine from the Douro, its elegance and complexity combined with the smooth tannins are unique in expressing old sheltered vineyards from Vale Mendiz in the heart of the Douro area in the Pinhão Valley. All the small details involving the production of Charme turn the final result very difficult to achieve. In the end, only the best barrels are chosen to be bottled as Charme.

Vinification

2010 year was uncommonly wet during winter and early spring, with very strong rains during this few months, as a consequence we add high yields and strong diseases pressure in the vineyards, the maturation period was very hot and dry, but light rain in the first days of September help specially the older and high altitude vineyards to complete a more balanced maturation.

Harvest was done in the beginning of September. Fermentation, has usual for Charme, was done with all bunch in traditional stone lagares, foot trodden. After a short maceration, alcoholic and malolactic fermentations were finished in French oak barrels, where the wine was aged for 14 months. Bottling was done without any fining or filtration.

Tasting Notes

Charme 2010 shows an bright light color, with very delicate and elegant aroma forest leafs and tobacco notes, with intense fruit character with cherry, raspberry and pine needles aromas, earthy notes of mushrooms and truffles and elegant notes of tea leaves. The palate is fresh and very intense, with strong presence of fresh fruit flavors, very elegant structure with velvety tannins. The mineral notes together with the great acidity are an important contribution for a wine with nerve, intense and persistent with very long lasting aftertaste.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: April 2012
Ageing: 14 month in french oak casks
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 25.3
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 1.8
Alcohol (%): 13
pH: 3.68
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.7
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 21
Production: 8.175 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is a rare wine from Douro. Its elegance and complexity, combined with the smooth and enveloping tannins are unique in expressing the old sheltered vineyards from Vale Mendiz located in the Pinhão Valley. All the small details involving the production of this great wine turn the final result very difficult to achieve. In the end only the best barrels are considered to make the final blend.

Vinification

Vineyard burst was uncommonly early in 2011, all the cycle was anticipated and harvest started earlier than ever, nevertheless higher planted vineyards went slower, and when harvest ended all wines presented a good quantity of total acidity.

Fermentation was done with all the stems, in traditional stone lagares and foot treading. After a short maceration, alcoholic and malolactic fermentations were finished in French oak barrels, where the wine aged for 17 months. Bottling was carried out on the 20th February of 2013 without any fining or filtration.

Tasting Notes

Charme 2011 shows a deeper colour than 2010. The nose is complex and impressive with fresh red fruit aromas, delicate notes of balsamic herbs and tea leaves that contribute to a great aromatic complexity. The palate is fresh and long with an elegant structure and velvety tannins. The mineral notes together with a strong presence of fresh fruit flavors provide an intense and persistent long aftertaste.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: February 2013
Ageing: 17 months in French oak casks
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 27.1
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.6
Alcohol (%): 14
pH: 3.68
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.3
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 22
Production: 7.414 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is a rare Douro wine. Its elegance and complexity, encompassing, soft and ripe tannins are a unique manner in which to express very old vines, the freshest and most sheltered of the Mendiz Valley, in the heart of the river Pinhão valley. Charme is the ultimate interpretation of Dirk Niepoort's strong passion for the Burgundy region. A signature wine, a unique wine. Charme is the only still wine produced in the Vale de Mendiz winery in the historical round granite wine presses.

Vinification

2012 was marked by the lack of rain in the Douro region. As a result, the growing cycle of the vine began, on average, 15 days later than in previous years. On the other hand, winter 2012 also saw very low temperatures, which resulted in the good and well balanced growth of the vegetation. The maturation period was not as hot as usual, creating a good balance in the total acidity of the grape musts.

The grapes were harvested at the beginning of September and after careful selection on the sorting table, the whole grape bunches were directly channelled to a granite press.

What is most important in this winemaking process is the length of time of the pre-fermentation maceration and start of alcoholic fermentation, where extraction is very rigorous. Charme initially undergoes fermentation in the press and then moves on to the barrel, where it concludes the process. Without batônnage and racked only once, this wine ages in French oak barrels for 15 to 19 months.

Tasting Notes

Charme 2012, lighter in colour than its predecessor, has a vibrant and very complex nose. Green tea and some vegetal notes from the stems, considerable stone and fresh red fruits give it a very fine and delicate aroma. It has elegance and precision while remaining self-assured. In the mouth it is fresh and still very young, with a good structure and medium concentration. It is multifaceted without being heavy. Extremely light, markedly mineral with a hint of toasted barrel notes which is perfectly integrated. It has firm but silky tannins, with a long, fresh and very seductive finish.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: 28 May 2014
Ageing: 19 months
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 25.5
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.5
Alcohol (%): 13.99
pH: 3.61
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.4
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 34
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 133
Volumic Mass (g/cm³): 0.99
Production: 4.650 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is a rare Douro wine. Its elegance and complexity, encompassing, soft and ripe tannins are a unique manner in which to express very old vines, the freshest and most sheltered of the Mendiz Valley, in the heart of the river Pinhão valley. Charme is the ultimate interpretation of Dirk Niepoort's strong passion for the Burgundy region. A signature wine, a unique wine. Charme is the only still wine produced in the Vale de Mendiz winery in the historical round granite wine Lagares.

Vinification

The winter of 2012/13 was important in replenishing water levels after several dry winters. The rain carried on in the spring with March beating several records. The relatively high level of rain and low temperatures until June (there was still snow on the Marão as late as May!) meant that the vegetative cycle of the vine was delayed. The weather warmed up dramatically at the end of June and remained so until the beginning of September. The first grapes for Charme were harvested under perfect weather conditions on the 12th September and finished well before the onset of heavy rain on 27th September.

The grapes were lightly crushed with 100% stems into granite Lagares where they were foot trodden. What is most important in this winemaking process is the length of time of the pre-fermentation maceration and start of alcoholic fermentation, where extraction is very rigorous. Charme initially undergoes fermentation in Lagar and then moves on to barrel, where it concludes the process. Minimal racking and ageing in French oak barrels for 15 to 19 months, completes the process.

Tasting Notes

Charme 2013 exhibits a brilliant medium light red colour with a complex aroma reminiscent of tea leaves and a mild earthy character and a hint of cherries. On the palate while delicate and elegant there is an underlying assertive structure with great length, minerality and freshness, along with well integrated oak leading to a harmonious soft tannin driven finish.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: March 2015
Ageing: 16 months
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 24.2
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.6
Alcohol (%): 13.5
pH: 3.71
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 4.9
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.71
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 26
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 92
Volumic Mass (g/cm³): 0.9901
Production: 5.850 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is a rare Douro wine. Its elegance and complexity, encompassing, soft and ripe tannins are a unique manner in which to express very old vines, the freshest and most sheltered of Vale de Mendiz, in the heart of the Pinhão valley. Charme is the ultimate interpretation of Dirk Niepoort's strong passion for the Burgundy region. A signature wine, a unique wine. Charme is the only still wine produced in the Vale de Mendiz winery in the historical round granite wine Lagares.

Vinification

The weather during the agricultural year 2013/2014 will certainly be remembered for its instability. Harvest at Vale de Mendiz for parcels of grapes destined for Charme started early, on 1st September and the majority of grapes were picked before the effects of the rain, which during the month of September was 56.6 mm in the Cima Corgo -well up on 30 mm the average over the last few decades. A very rigorous job was carried out on the sorting table to ensure only optimum fruit was selected.

The grapes were lightly crushed with 100% stems into granite Lagares where they were foot trodden. What is most important in this winemaking process is the length of time of the pre-fermentation maceration and beginning of alcoholic fermentation, where extraction is very rigorous. Charme initially undergoes fermentation in Lagar and then moves on to barrel, where it concludes the process. Minimal racking and ageing in French oak barrels for 15 to 19 months, completes the process.

Tasting Notes

Brilliant light red colour with fantastic purity of fruit reminiscent of wild strawberries and a hint of cherries along with a low key earthy character in the background. On the front palate a light silky fruit leads through to a rustic earthy finish with great freshness, balance and structure. At this stage the youthful fruit dominates but behind it a firm structure suggests it will also age well.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: March 2016
Ageing: 15 months
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 24.8
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.49
Alcohol (%): 13.24
pH: 3.62
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.3
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.71
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 30
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 106
Volumic Mass (g/cm³): 1
Production: 9.760 bottles
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

Charme is all about elegance and balance, achieved by taking special attention to the smallest details during the entire wine-making process. Made in traditional stone lagares with 100% grape stems, Charme’s elegance is achieved using grapes from very old vineyards in Vale de Mendiz, on the banks of the Pinhão river.

Vinification

The 2014/15 viticultural year experienced a cold and very dry winter, with rainfall at a record low compared to previous years. In addition, the spring and summer were dry and hot with three heat waves occurring in June/July, prior to a cooler month of August – the low humidity ensured that the incidence of disease was at an all-time low, and as a result, the vineyards delivered superb, clean fruit. At Niepoort, in Vale de Mendiz, harvest started on 28 August under fine conditions. A very rigorous job was carried out on the sorting table to ensure only optimum fruit was selected. The grapes were lightly crushed with 100% stems into granite Lagares where they were foot trodden. What is most important in this winemaking process is the length of time of the pre-fermentation maceration and beginning of alcoholic fermentation, where extraction is very rigorous. Charme initially undergoes fermentation in Lagar and then moves on to barrel, where it concludes the process. Minimal racking and ageing in French oak barrels for 15 to 19 months, completes the process.

Tasting Notes

Light red in colour, with clean fruit aromas of cherries and raspberries accompanied by a subtle rustic character in the background. On the palate, the wine’s purity of fruit is the dominant note with great freshness, balance and structure. At this stage the youthful fruit is still very much in the foreground, but its firm underlying structure suggests that this wine will also age well.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A.
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Harvest Period: September 2015
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: Barrels
Fermentation: Granite lagares and barrels
Bottled: March 2017
Ageing: 15 months
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.6
Alcohol (%): 13.5
pH: 3.61
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.3
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 32
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 107
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Last Updated: 2022-09-26

The Charme is a Douro wine of great rarity. Its elegance and complexity, its smooth and engaging tannic structure are a unique expression of the old vines which grow nestled in a sheltered and cooler area in Vale de Mendiz, in the middle of the Pinhão Valley.

With this wine, Dirk Niepoort presents us with his interpretation of the Burgundy wine region for which he harbours a deep passion.

The Charme is a unique signature wine like no other.

Vinification

After a considerably cold and wet growing season up to July, it appeared that the harvest would be relatively delayed. However, the end of July and the month of August were dry and hot in the Douro, allowing the ripening process to catch up the delay. In Vale de Mendiz, the harvest began on 12 September, but with some bunches showing uneven ripening in all the vineyards. Heavy rain showers on 13 September forced us to pause the harvest, which proved to be useful because the grapes were able to ripen fully during the following weeks.

The harvest resumed in very favourable conditions, with cool nights. The last of the fruit was picked on 14 October. The mildew which set in in the region caused yields to drop by about 30%, but these low yields and the good weather conditions concentrated the fruit. Some blocks used for the Charme were harvested a little earlier, making for some very interesting wines.

Tasting Notes

A light, brilliant ruby appearance accompanies delicate aromas of venison and cherries. The palate upholds these reductive and rustic notes, together with a beautifully balanced structure. Thanks to a maturation period in used barriques, the fruit remains elegant and in perfect harmony with the oaky notes and fine-grained tannins. A long and refreshing finish suggests that this wine will age very well.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot e Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picking
Malolactic: In barriques
Fermentation: In granite lagares and barriques
Bottled: April 2018
Ageing: 15 months in barriques
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 22
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.6
Alcohol (%): 13
pH: 3.6
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 4.9
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 28
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 100
Volumic Mass (g/cm³): 0.99
Production: 12000 Bottles
Allergens: Sulfites
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians: no
Last Updated: 2022-09-26
Bottle
Box: 21 28 × 6 11450 wood
Pallet: 120 80 × 8 Rows 80 Boxes

Charme is all about elegance and balance, achieved by taking special attention to the smallest details during the entire wine-making process. Made in traditional stone lagares with 100% grape stems, Charme’s elegance is achieved using grapes from very old vineyards in Vale de Mendiz, on the banks of the Pinhão river.

Vinification

The viticultural year preceding the 2017 harvest was extremely hot and dry. Although rainfall in November was above average, December and January gave us well under half the average of a normal year. Spring 2017 also brought much less rainfall than usual. Apart from slightly cooler conditions in August, the months from April through to September were very warm with a few short heat waves and thunderstorms in July. At Vale de Mendiz harvest started on 24 August in various vineyards which provide fruit for the Charme. The weather conditions for harvesting were good and the fruit proved to be of excellent quality. The decision to harvest early helped us to avoid berry shrinkage which became a problem towards the end of the harvest.

100% whole bunches were lightly crushed into granite lagares where they were foot trodden. What is most important in this winemaking process is the length of time of the pre-fermentation maceration and the beginning of alcoholic fermentation, where extraction is very short but intense. The Charme initially undergoes fermentation in lagares and then concludes the process in barrels. Minimal racking and ageing in French oak barrels for 15 months finish off the winemaking process.

Tasting Notes

A light brick red appearance accompanies delicate aromas of sweet cherries and strawberries with a subtle aroma of old barriques providing a superb rustic character. On the palate pure primary fruit aromas come through, especially cherries, with a silky texture complemented by a rustic notes from the old barrels, lending the wine length, structure and a long, refreshing finish.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: August and September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: In barriques
Fermentation: In granite lagares and barriques
Bottled: January 2019
Ageing: 15 months in barriques
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 25.3
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.6
Alcohol (%): 13.7
pH: 3.63
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.5
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 33
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 119
Volumic Mass (g/cm³): 0.99
Production: 11724 Bottles
Allergens: Sulfites
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians: yes
Last Updated: 2022-09-26
Bottle
Box: 19 26.5 33 × 6 11600 wood
Pallet: 120 80 × 8 Rows 80 Boxes

Charme is all about elegance and balance, achieved by taking special attention to the smallest details during the entire wine-making process. Made in traditional stone lagares with 100% grape stems, Charme’s elegance is achieved using grapes from very old vineyards in Vale de Mendiz, on the banks of the Pinhão river.

Vinification

The 2018 harvest will be remembered for its record low yields in the vineyard and atypical weather. The winter was cold and dry, while Spring and early Summer were very wet and relatively cold, which led to a delay in the vegetative cycle as well as problems with mildew in this region. In addition to these challenges, there was a dramatic hailstorm at the end of May and a heat wave in the last few days of July.

August was hot, with hot and dry weather conditions for the whole duration of the harvest, which started at Vale de Mendiz on 6 September. A few small batches of wines were made for the Charme in the early stages of the harvest, using 100% whole bunches foot-trodden in traditional stone lagares. After a short maceration period, the alcoholic and malolactic fermentations finished in French oak barrels, where the wine was aged for 15 months, prior to bottling.

Tasting Notes

The 2018 Charme displays a brilliant light ruby appearance, with very delicate aromas of cherries and raspberries along with elegant earthy forest floor notes and hints of tea leaves. The palate is fine and intense, with superb freshness and a very elegant structure with velvety tannins. With only 10% of new oak in the final blend, the subtle structure stemming from the wood integrates seamlessly with the fruit and acid-driven freshness.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort (Vinhos) S.A
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: In barriques
Fermentation: In granite lagares and barriques
Bottled: February 2020
Ageing: 15 months in barriques
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 23.7
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.6
Alcohol (%): 12.9
pH: 3.67
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.5
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.8
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 15
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 77
Volumic Mass (g/cm³): 0.991
Production: 9400 Bottles
Allergens: Sulfite
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians: yes
Last Updated: 2022-09-26
Bottle
Box: 19 26.5 33 × 6 11600 wood
Pallet: 120 80 × 8 Rows 80 Boxes

Charme is all about elegance and balance, achieved by taking special attention to the smallest details during the entire wine-making process. Made in traditional stone lagares with 100% grape stems, Charme’s elegance is achieved using grapes from very old vineyards in Vale de Mendiz, on the banks of the Pinhão river.

Vinification

In 2019, rainfall levels were not only low during the winter months but remained so throughout the whole year. However, in the Douro, and for Niepoort, in the sub-region of Cima Corgo, two factors compensated for this lack of rain. Firstly, the summer months were unusually cool and, secondly, the 26th and 27th of August and, to a lesser extent, the third week of September brought some much-needed rain at just the right time. These conditions resulted in beautifully balanced musts with high acidity levels which will lend the wine freshness and fantastic elegance.

At Vale de Mendiz, harvesting began on 2 September, under favourable conditions. The last bunches were brought in during the first week of October. Our musts required almost no adjustments, and we were able to vinify some incredibly fresh, elegant, high-acidity batches for the Charme.

The 100% whole bunches were gently foot-trodden in granite lagares. The most important element of this winemaking process is the length of the maceration period before fermentation begins and at the beginning of alcoholic fermentation, where extraction is very short but intense. The Charme begins fermenting in lagares and then ends the process in wooden barrels. The wine matures in these French oak barriques for 15 months.

Tasting Notes

A bright garnet appearance brimming with liveliness renders this wine similar to Burgundian Pinot Noir.

On the nose, the complexity of the grape varieties and old vines from which this wine was made become evident. First, delicate floral aromas emerge, then give way to notes on the red fruit spectrum (redcurrant and cherries). The wood is utterly discreet and complemented by balsamic hints and a minty character which greatly add to the wine’s sophistication.

The palate is an expression of utmost elegance and precision, supported by a delicate structure and excellent acidity. A long finish lingers on piquant and crisp aromas.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoot (Vinhos) S.A
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: In barriques
Fermentation: In granite lagares and barriques
Bottled: January 2021
Ageing: 15 months in barriques
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 21.9
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.6
Alcohol (%): 13
pH: 3.49
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.4
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.6
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 23
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 100
Volumic Mass (g/cm³): 0.989
Production: 8500 Bottles
Allergens: Sulfite
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians: yes
Last Updated: 2022-09-26
Bottle
Box: 19 26.5 33 × 6 11600 wood
Pallet: 120 80 × 8 Rows 80 Boxes

The Charme is a very special Douro wine. Its elegance, complexity as well as its smooth and velvety tannins form a unique expression of the old vines from which it is produced, in the cooler and more sheltered vineyard sites of Vale de Mendiz in the middle of the Pinhão Valley.

For Dirk Niepoort, the Charme represents his ultimate interpretation and proclaimed passion for Burgundy.

This still, unfortified wine is produced in our round granite tanks at the Vale de Mendiz cellars. The Charme is a signature wine, a wine like no other.

Vinification

The 2020 growing year was very heterogeneous. A rainy winter was followed by a quite moderate spring, providing favourable conditions for the vines’ growth. On the other hand, the month of June was relatively cool and slowed down the growth cycle. July brought very high temperatures (the hottest since 1931), with three heat waves which reduced the yields somewhat.

Harvesting began in the first weeks of August in the hottest areas and concluded in the higher-lying slopes at the end of September.

A few small batches of wines were made for the Charme in the early stages of the harvest, using 100% whole bunches foot-trodden in traditional stone lagares. After a short maceration period, the alcoholic and malolactic fermentations finished in French oak barrels, where the wine was aged for 15 months, prior to bottling.

Tasting Notes

With its lively, pale colour, this wine’s appearance is probably closest to a Burgundian Pinot Noir.

The nose reveals the complexity of the grape varieties and old vines which make up this blend. First, floral notes of violets appear, followed by fleeting nuances of graphite on a base of red fruits such as raspberry, redcurrant and cherry. The oak is incredibly discreet and balanced by balsamic as well as minty aromas which further elevate the wine’s sophistication.

The palate impresses with outstanding elegance, precision, a delicate structure and superb acidity, finishing long, with persistent spice and freshness.

Technical Information

Producer: Niepoort(Vinhos) S.A
Region: Douro
Wine Color: Red
Soil Type: Schist
Vineyards: Vale de Mendiz
Average Vine Age: 70 and more than 100 years
Grape Varieties: Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others
Vines per HA: 6000-6500
Pruning Method: Double Guyot and Royat
Altitude (m): 300-350
Harvest Period: September
Harvest Method: Hand picked
Malolactic: In barriques
Fermentation: In granite lagares and barriques
Bottled: January 2022
Ageing: 15 months in barriques
Dry Extract (g/dm³): 24
Residual Sugar (g/dm³): 0.6
Alcohol (%): 13.5
pH: 3.53
Total Acidity (g/dm³): 5.6
Volatile Acidity (g/dm³): 0.7
Free SO₂ at Bottling (mg/dm³): 21
Total SO₂ (mg/dm³): 110
Volumic Mass (g/cm³): 0.989
Production: 3270 Bottles
Allergens: Sulfite
Food Suggestions: Mushrooms and game dishes, such as partridge or pheasant.
Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians: yes
Last Updated: 2022-09-26
Bottle
Box: 19 26.5 33 × 6 11600 wood
Pallet: 120 80 × 8 Rows 80 Boxes