The Carmenere grape is a variety originally planted in Bordeaux, France where it was known as Grande Vidure. Along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, Carmenere is considered part of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux. It is an ancient grape going back to the time of the Roman Empire. It was wiped out in France by phylloxera. Today, Chile is the largest producer of Carmenere followed by Italy and the USA.
Wait a second, this isn’t Merlot!
Carmenere is Chile’s signature grape variety. It was rediscovered in 1994 where it had previously been thought to be Merlot. DNA testing has shown that it is derived from cuttings of the Grand Vidure vines taken in Bordeaux in the late 1800s. Carmenere makes up about 6 percent of Chile’s planted area.
Aromas and Flavors of Carmenere
Similar to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, I find Carmenere to be good on its own or when blended with other red wine grapes. It usually isn’t overly tannic and is approachable. I have gotten a combination of red fruit and dark fruit along with chocolate. Occasionally it shows a bit of green vegetable character. Of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux I find it to be the most like Merlot and Malbec.
What is your favorite Carmenere based wine?