2010 Charme Tinto

The 2010 Charme is an old vines blend of Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and others, aged in French oak for 14 months and often postured as a Burgundy imitator. Some years I love it, others not. Light in color, very much “see through,” it is laced with some flinty notes (a common occurrence) and it is very laid back. Bright and rather elegant, to be sure, it has some charm and appeal but little substance, although to its credit it does flesh out somewhat with aeration. Still, I ultimately wound up rather liking the crisp, juicy finish quite a bit as it delivered fruit flavor to the palate. It has a certain sunny appeal that can be quite charming. Whether anything is happening that justifies its status and price tag is another question you will have to answer with your pocketbook. Drink now-2020. Niepoort’s 2010 Tinto releases are successful in the context of this vintage. This 2010 vintage is also a good year to troll at the lower end of Niepoort’s red lineup. The less heralded wines show surprisingly well. Importer: Martine’s Wines, Inc., Novato, CA.; tel. (415) 883-0400; except in New York/New Jersey: Eric Solomon, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565