Origin:
Carignan is a grape variety that originally comes from Spain, more specifically Aragon. In the 12th century, it was introduced into southern France where, on the shores of the Mediterranean, it has thrived, from both an agronomic and climatic standpoint.
Aromas:
Most of the time, wines made with Carignan have notes of spices and especially ripe fruits (namely prune), blackberry or black cherry. After ageing in oak barrels, these are accompanied by hints of toasted bread, grilled almonds or leather.
Wines produced:
Carignan has a high potential for acidity, and average potential for sugar content and color, especially when harvested in high yields. By controlling yield, however, we can obtain wines that are less acidic, more concentrated and thus better balanced. In this case, the tannins are softer and less herbaceous. Carbonic maceration is a winemaking technique that enables these characteristics to be easily improved. The wines thus become smoother and fruitier. Wines made from old vines, on the contrary, are often of great quality – powerful and full-bodied – thanks to their low yield.
Areas planted:
Carignan is an exclusively Mediterranean variety.
Côtes du Rhône red and rosé (30 % maximum of total grape varieties), Côtes du Rhône Villages rouges et rosés (20 % maximum of total grape varieties), Costières de Nîmes, Luberon, Ventoux.
Used for red, rosé wines.
