Carménère is now grown mainly in vineyards in Chile and Italy. Originally from France, it was widespread there until the phylloxera disaster. After vineyards were replanted, however, it almost disappeared, as easier varieties were preferred. Nevertheless, Carménère remains one of the six red grape varieties of Bordeaux, alongside Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Carménère wines are deep red and usually made as single-variety wines. Occasionally, like Petit Verdot, it is also used as a blending wine with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc or Merlot.
Also known in Chile as Grande Vidure, the variety is a natural crossing of Gros Cabernet x Cabernet Franc. It is also grown in Australia, New Zealand and, in small quantities, Switzerland.
This member of the Cabernet family strongly dislikes cool, damp and cold weather during spring flowering, which causes coulure. Coulure is a fertilisation disorder in which unusually large numbers of flowers or young berries are shed from the bunch structure, resulting in the loss of small berries or even all the flowers and a reduced yield. Besides unfavourable weather, deficiencies such as a lack of light or nutrients, excessive leaf removal, and overly strong or weak growth can also adversely affect flowering.
Studies have shown that Carménère is a distant relative of Merlot. Their similarities make the varieties easy to confuse. On comparison, however, it is apparent even at an early stage that, unlike Merlot, Carménère has reddish undersides to its leaves. Merlot ripens almost two to three weeks ahead of Carménère. This late-ripening variety also yields less than Merlot.
Dark in colour, with pleasant aromas reminiscent of red fruits, dark berries and spices. This rich red wine, low in tannins, is often served with fish. Its range extends from spicy, earthy notes to dark chocolate, tobacco and leather. Ageing in French and American oak barrels makes the wine even more interesting and complex.
+49 (0) 8362 9308800
