Widely cultivated in the south of France, this grape variety has Mediterranean origins and characteristics that make it unique in the world of wine.
A Carignan It is a red grape variety with history and has become popular in several producing regions around the world. Widely cultivated in southern this grape variety has Mediterranean origins and characteristics that make it unique in the world of wine. Below, I detail its origin, history, expansion, growing regions and the main features of the wines produced from its vinification.
This variety originates in the northeast of Spain, more precisely in the Aragon region, where it is known as Cariñena (or Mazuelo in Rioja). Its name refers to the city of Cariñena, where it is believed to have emerged. The variety has gained popularity in several Mediterranean wine regions for its high productivity, heat resistance and ability to adapt to diverse soils. In the 12th century, it was taken to the south of France, where it found a new home and became one of the most planted grapes in Languedoc-Roussillon, especially between the 19th and 20th centuries, when the region’s wines began to meet growing popular demand. In southern France, Carignan thrives in hot, dry regions with stony, nutrient-poor soils, such as those found in Languedoc-Roussillon and the Rhône Valley. During the 20th century, the variety was widely used to produce table wines on a large scale, but in recent decades, viticulture in the region has turned towards quality rather than quantity. As a result, old Carignan vineyards began to be valued, especially in blends with other varieties such as Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Today in Languedoc, Carignan vineyards over 50 years old are responsible for more concentrated and elegant wines. Furthermore, the variety plays an important role in the Corbières, Minervois, Côtes Catalanes and Fitou appellations. Carignan is a late-ripening grape, ideal for hot climates. It has large, dense bunches, with small berries and thick skin; It gives high yields, which has made it popular for mass production, but which can be controlled to produce superior quality wines. It has good resistance to diseases, but is sensitive to rot due to the density of its clusters.
Wines made from Carignan can vary greatly, depending on the terroir and the winemaker’s approach, but generally have a deep and intense color, with purple tones; aromas of dark fruits (blackberry, black cherry), spices (black pepper, clove), and earthy or herbaceous notes, such as thyme and rosemary. On the palate they have high acidity, firm tannins and a medium to full body. In wines from old vineyards, there can be greater complexity, with flavors of ripe fruit, leather and tobacco. Its wines, depending on the vinification, are of high quality and can age well, developing greater complexity over time. There are many Carignan labels or with Carignan in the cut available in Brazil, such as the Cuvée Laborie Carignan, with an abundant raspberry nose with notes of tobacco and spices; Chilean Odfjell produces Orzada Carignan, a very interesting organic wine; the mythical and sensational Lebanese wine Château Musar Rouge, uses Carignan in its blend; from Sardinia we have Araja Valli di Porto Pino, where the Carignan variety predominates, it is a powerful and long-lasting wine and, finally, I suggest Dom Brial Dom ICI, which holds all the terroir of Roussillon (IGP Côtes Catalanes),
sustainable wine, garnet red in color, with a fruity nose and spicy notes.
Carignan is a grape that combines rusticity and elegance, reflecting the character of the regions where it is grown. Although it has long been seen as a high-yielding variety, the recognition of its potential in ancient vines and unique terroirs has brought new life to the variety, resulting in intense, versatile wines full of personality. Whether as a component of blends or in varietal wines, Carignan is a vibrant expression of the Mediterranean and beyond.
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*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
