Carignan
Carignan, a black-skinned grape likely native to Aragon, plays a crucial role in Mediterranean winemaking. Thriving in warm climates, it contributes high tannins, acidity, and colour to blends, enhancing aroma and flavour. Historically significant in France's Languedoc, it now excels in warmer Mediterranean regions like Spain, Italy, and California, adapting to diverse terroirs.
This versatile wine grape goes by many names: Carignan in France, Mazuelo or Cariñena in Spain, Carignane in the USA, and Carignano in Italy.
Taste
Carignan wines typically exhibit bright acidity, gritty tannins, and notes of bitter spice and dry herbs, complementing red and black fruit flavors. In Spain, warm climates and shale/limestone soils impart refined minerality to Carignan varietal wines and blends.
Other
Carignan vines yield large quantities but are vulnerable to mildew and rot. It requires warmer climates for proper maturation, often budding and ripening late. Old vine Carignan is preferred for its superior taste. g to diverse terroirs.