Carignan

Carignan is a grape variety that originally comes from Spain, more specifically Aragon. In the 12th century, it was introduced into southern France where, on the shores of the Mediterranean, it has thrived, from both an agronomic and climatic standpoint.
It is an exclusively Mediterranean variety. In France, it is found from Nice to Perpignan and a little bit in Corsica.

Carignan is made for hot, very sunny terroirs. In addition, it withstands drought well, which makes it a natural for the Mediterranean coast, mainly the southwestern area near the Spanish border (Roussillon area).

Most of the time, wines made with Carignan have notes of spices and especially ripe fruits (namely prune), blackberry or black cherry. After ageing in oak barrels, these are accompanied by hints of toasted bread, grilled almonds or leather.

This grape variety has a high potential for acidity, and average potential for sugar content and color, especially when harvested in high yields. By controlling yield, however, we can obtain wines that are less acidic, more concentrated and thus better balanced. In this case, the tannins are softer and less herbaceous.

There is also a white mutation of Carignan, very rare and mainly found in Languedoc/Roussillon.

Nowadays winemakers can produce height quality wines out of Carignan.