Wine Grape: Carmenère
Carmenère is a red wine grape often confused with Cabernet Franc, especially Italy, and confused with Merlot in Chile. It is similar to both vines. Before the phylloxera epidemic in the 19th century, Carmenère was widely planted in Bordeaux. Today it is almost non-existant there.
The name probably comes from 'carmine', referring to its dark crimson color. Along with Petit Verdot and Malbec, it's one of the lesser-used varieties permitted in Bordeaux blends along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. It ripens even later than Cabernet Sauvignon.
Synonyms
Also known as Carménère, Carmenere, Carmeneyre, Carmenelle, Carbonet, Grand Carmenet, Grande Vuidure, Cabernelle,
Where
Chile
France: Bordeaux
Italy: Grown in Northeastern Italy, but mistakenly called Cabernet Franc
Principal Wines
France: Bordeaux: Bordeaux AOC, Bordeaux Supérieur AOC
Characteristics
Color: Dark ruby red
Nose: Fruity (black fruits), Spicy, Vegetal (green pepper), Toasted (coffee)
Palate: Full bodied. Relatively low acidity. Tannic.
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