Are you a fan of powerful and full-bodied red wines? Let me take you on a journey through the sun-drenched vineyards of the Mediterranean and discover the Carignan grape variety! Well established in France (its first vineyard), the typically Mediterranean variety perfectly embodies the richness and strength of the region's wines.
To better understand this fascinating grape variety,
History and Origins of Carignan
The viticultural history of Carignan dates back to Roman times. Originally from the Aragon region in Spain, where it is locally called "mazuelo" or "mazuela," this grape variety was introduced to France by the Romans.It has been cultivated since the Middle Ages in the south of France, an area where it quickly thrived, particularly in the vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence.
Thus, in the 12th century, the cultivation of Carignan allowed the Mediterranean regions to develop economically. The local wines were then particularly prized by royal courts and merchants, ensuring the renown of this grape variety.
Then, during the 18th and 19th centuries, Carignan wines experienced a growing popularity, notably thanks to Dutch merchants. This period even marks the golden age of the grape variety, with flourishing production crossing borders.
Nevertheless, during the 20th century, the production of Carignan experienced ups and downs. Thus, while there was a peak of 150 000 hectares planted worldwide in the 1980s, the grape variety subsequently saw a significant decline in popularity due to its high productivity resulting in wines of variable quality.
However, the significant efforts made in recent decades by many winemakers (notably those from Languedoc-Roussillon) are gradually bearing fruit. Carignan is thus regaining its former glory and today allows for the production of magnificent powerful red wines , when the variety is cultivated on suitable terroirs and with measured yields.Moreover, the variety presents serious advantages in the face of climate change. Optimism is therefore essential for the future of the variety! Where is the Carignan grape variety cultivated? Carignan is primarily cultivated in Mediterranean regions benefiting from strong sunlight and dry soils that promote its good maturity. In France, the grape variety is particularly present in Languedoc-Roussillon and the Provence region. Outside of France, Carignan is also found in Spain (6,000 hectares), Italy, California, as well as in several South American countries like Argentina and Chile.Depending on the regions, this grape variety is known by many names such as Mazuelo, Cariñena, Crignane, Crinan etc.
Furthermore, the diverse soils where Carignan is cultivated also contribute to the complexity of its wines. Three main types of soils where the variety thrives can be distinguished:
- clay-limestone soils,
- schist soils,
- sandy and gravelly soils.
The diversity of the terroirs thus allows winemakers to produce Carignan wines with varied profiles, ranging from powerful and tannic reds to lighter and fruitier wines.
The characteristics of Carignan
Carignan is a versatile and robust grape variety.Cultivated for high yield, it produces bland, diluted, and low-alcohol wines. However, if this grape is grown on suitable terroirs and with more limited yields, it then reveals its full potential.
The Carignan noir generally produces colorful wines, full-bodied and powerful, displaying a beautiful generosity on the palate as well as a pronounced tannic structure. These wines often require aging in oak barrels to soften and develop their full complexity.
From an aromatic perspective, the cuvées from this grape variety regularly reveal flavors of black fruits like blackberry and black cherry, as well as spicy notes of pepper, licorice, and garrigue.
Furthermore, Carignan is rarely vinified alone.This one is indeed often associated with grape varieties such as Syrah or Grenache, thus balancing its power to create harmonious wines.
However, some winemakers do produce high-quality 100% Carignan wines. Often from old vines, these wines then highlight the full richness and aromatic complexity of Carignan, offering a unique and authentic tasting experience.
Carignan Harvest
What to eat with Carignan?
The intense aromatic palette of Carignan makes it an ideal companion for flavorful dishes.Here are some suggestions to best appreciate the wines produced from this grape variety. Spicy and Mediterranean dishes. Craving an exceptional taste pairing? Try Carignan with lamb-based dishes like a roasted leg of lamb or grilled lamb chops. Tapenades and other Catalan specialties also perfectly enhance the spicy notes of the wine. Vegetables and stewed dishes. For a perfect pairing, also consider Mediterranean dishes like ratatouilles, tagines, and moussakas. Grilled vegetables, especially eggplants and peppers, enhance the black fruit and garrigue aromas of Carignan.Why not prepare a homemade ratatouille tonight?
