Carmenere
Predominantly grown in Chile's Colchagua Valley, Carmenere originated in Bordeaux, France. Its name, derived from "carmin," reflects its crimson leaves before autumn. Historically known as "Biturica" in Bordeaux and "Predicato di Biturica" in Tuscany, it's also called "Vidure," indicating a Cabernet Sauvignon clone.
Carmenere wines flourish in Chile's ideal climate, and are also produced in Italy, Argentina, New Zealand, the United States, and France, with limited cultivation in Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Virginia.
Taste
Flavour elements in Carmenere wines include green bell pepper, tobacco, leather, and a hint of dark chocolate, resulting in a bold, fruity wine with a deep violet colour, best enjoyed in its youth.
Fully ripened wines may exhibit spice, herbal elements, and black and red fruit notes, with the focus shifting between red and black fruit depending on ripeness.
Other
Slow-ripening and demanding ample sunlight, it struggles in the cooler, wetter springs of France, facing vulnerabilities to coulure and mildew.