Carménère

Carménère is a red grape variety that originally comes from Bordeaux, France. It has found a new home in Chile and gained in importance. Carménère used to be one of six red grape varieties used in Bordeaux blends. Due to its susceptibility to disease and low resistance to phylloxera, it was largely pushed out of Bordeaux vineyards. In the 1990s, however, it was rediscovered in Chile, where it had been mistakenly planted as Merlot for many years. The grape variety is often referred to as Chile’s signature grape variety. When it was rediscovered in Chile, it was initially mistaken for Merlot and planted as such. Eventually, experts realised that the grape variety cultivated by the Chileans was actually Carménère. This led to a revival of interest in this grape variety and a focus on the production of high-quality Carménère wines in Chile.

Carménère wines are known for their rich, dark fruit flavours. These often show notes of dark plums, blackberries and black cherries. They can also have vegetal and spicy characteristics, including green pepper, tobacco and dark chocolate. The wines usually have soft tannins and a velvety texture. The grape variety loves warm to temperate climates. Chile offers almost perfect conditions.

Carménère wines go well with a variety of dishes. They go particularly well with red meat, grilled or roasted. They are also an excellent accompaniment to dishes with smoky or spicy flavours. The herbal notes of Carménère also go well with dishes flavoured with herbs and Mediterranean cuisine. The grape variety has gained international recognition and is widely cultivated in Chile, particularly in the Colchagua Valley, Maipo Valley and Rapel Valley regions. It has become an integral part of the Chilean wine industry and is celebrated for its unique character.