All about Carignan

Appearance

  • Color: Carignan wines typically have a deep red to purple hue, indicating their concentration and intensity.
  • Opacity: High opacity, reflecting the wine’s depth and richness.

Aroma

  • Primary Aromas: Red and dark fruits such as cranberry, raspberry, blackberry, and cherry.
  • Secondary Aromas: Floral notes like violet, along with hints of spice such as black pepper, clove, and cinnamon.
  • Tertiary Aromas: With aging, Carignan can develop complex aromas of tobacco, cured meat, and earthy notes.

Flavor Profile

  • Fruit Flavors: Predominantly red and dark fruit flavors, including cranberry, raspberry, cherry, and blackberry.
  • Other Flavors: Notes of baking spices (cinnamon, clove), licorice, and cured meat; in warmer climates, hints of black pepper and smoky elements may be present.
  • Oak Influence:Oak aging can add flavors of vanilla, spice, and toasty notes, enhancing the wine’s complexity and adding a layer of softness to its robust tannins.

Structure

  • Body: Medium to full-bodied, providing a substantial mouthfeel.
  • Tannins: Moderate to high tannins, which give the wine a firm structure and good aging potential.
  • Acidity: Medium-high acidity, which provides freshness and balances the wine’s bold flavors.
  • Alcohol: Ranges from 13.5% to 15%.

Pairings for Carignan

Grilled Meats
Grilled Meats

Grilled Meats

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Roasted Vegetables and Mushrooms
Roasted Vegetables and Mushrooms

Roasted Vegetables and Mushrooms

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Spiced Dishes
Spiced Dishes

Spiced Dishes

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