Carménère

Carménère is a red grape variety originally planted in the Médoc region of Bordeaux, France, where it was used to produce deep red wines and occasionally used for blending purposes in the same manner as Petit Verdot.

History

Carménère is considered one of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux, France. Today, it is rarely found in France due to its susceptibility to diseases such as Phylloxera, a pest that infested vineyards across Europe in the 19th century, decimating many vineyards.

Characteristics

Carménère wine has a deep red color and aromas found in red fruits, spices and berries. The tannins are gentler and softer than those in Cabernet Sauvignon and it is usually medium- to full-bodied. Carménère is also very responsive to oak aging and is sometimes aged in French or American oak to enhance its flavor.

Carménère in Chile

Carménère has found a new home in Chile, where it was mistakenly identified as Merlot until 1994. The Chilean climate is particularly suited to growing Carménère grapes due to the long growing season, which allows the grapes to fully mature and develop their full flavor potential. Today, Chile produces the vast majority of Carménère wines, with over 8,800 hectares planted throughout the country.

Food Pairing

Carménère pairs well with a variety of foods due to its rich flavors and smooth tannins. It is particularly well-suited to dishes featuring herbs and spices, including Mexican, Italian, and Indian cuisine. It also pairs well with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and lamb.

See Also

• Wine
• Wine tasting
• Viticulture
• List of grape varieties