Carmenere

Carmenere is a red wine grape variety that is originally from Bordeaux, France. It is now mostly grown in Chile, where it has become the country’s signature grape. Carmenere is known for its deep, dark color, and its rich, complex flavors. It is a full-bodied wine that is often compared to Cabernet Sauvignon, but with a softer, smoother finish.

Carmenere is a relatively new grape variety, having only been rediscovered in Chile in the 1990s. For many years, it was thought to be extinct, as it had been mistakenly identified as Merlot. It wasn’t until the 1990s that DNA testing revealed that many of the vines thought to be Merlot were actually Carmenere.

Today, Carmenere is one of the most popular red wine varieties in Chile, and it is also grown in other parts of the world, including Italy, the United States, and Australia. In Chile, Carmenere is often blended with other grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, to create complex, flavorful wines.

One of the most famous brands of Carmenere is Montes Alpha Carmenere. This wine is made by the Montes winery in Chile, and it is known for its rich, fruity flavors and smooth finish. Another popular brand is Concha y Toro Carmenere, which is made by the Concha y Toro winery in Chile. This wine is known for its deep, dark color and its complex, spicy flavors.

There are several different varieties of Carmenere, each with its own unique flavor profile. The most common variety is the traditional Carmenere, which is known for its rich, fruity flavors and its smooth, velvety finish. Another variety is the Carmenere Reserva, which is aged for a longer period of time and has a more complex flavor profile. The Carmenere Gran Reserva is the highest quality variety, and it is aged for several years to develop its rich, complex flavors.

Carmenere is a great wine to pair with a variety of foods. It pairs well with red meats, such as beef and lamb, as well as with spicy dishes and strong cheeses. It is also a great wine to enjoy on its own, as it has a rich, complex flavor that is perfect for sipping and savoring.