01 Nov 2024
This week I’m celebrating National Carignan Day with Penny and the team at Cellar Door Wines. For those new to this grape, it’s a red variety celebrated for its deep colour, high acidity, and robust tannins. While it is often used in blends, Carignan is increasingly recognised and appreciated as a single varietal wine and Penny has expertly selected two for me to try this week.
Known by various names depending on the region—Cariñena in Spain, Carignano in Italy, and Carignane in the United States—this grape has a rich and diverse history.
Historically, Carignan has been a significant grape in the Mediterranean region. It was once one of the most planted grape varieties in France, although its popularity declined in the late 20th century.
The grape is believed to have originated in Cariñena, Aragon, in northern Spain, and was introduced to France as early as the 12th century. This long history has allowed Carignan to develop a unique profile that is now being rediscovered by wine enthusiasts.
Carignan wines are typically medium-bodied, offering flavours of red fruits like raspberry, along with spicy notes such as cinnamon and pepper.
Wines made from old vines, known as vieilles vignes, tend to have more concentration and elegance, making them particularly sought after.
The versatility of Carignan allows it to be grown in various regions, including Southern France, particularly in the Languedoc-Roussillon area, as well as in parts of Spain and Sardinia in Italy. It is also found in New World countries like Chile, Argentina, and South Africa. So, let’s get onto the two amazing Carignan wines from Cellar Door Wines in St Albans.
La Mécanique Old Vine Carignan 2021 (£11.95 from Cellar Door Wines)
La Mécanique Old Vine Carignan 2021 is a distinguished wine from the Hérault region in Southern France, part of the renowned Languedoc-Roussillon area. This region is celebrated for its diverse and high-quality wines.
The producer, La Mécanique du Vin (meaning the mechanics of wine), is dedicated to showcasing the unique characteristics of old vine Carignan. These vines, often over 50 years old, contribute significantly to the wine’s depth and complexity.
This vintage is a light to medium-bodied red wine, offering a delightful array of flavours. On the nose, it presents an abundance of red and black berry fruits,
complemented by subtle notes of sweet spice and vanilla. The palate is juicy and vibrant, with a smooth texture that makes it incredibly drinkable. The wine’s balanced
acidity and moderate tannins make it versatile for food pairings, working well with dishes like steak, lamb chops, and hard cheeses.
Château Guéry Carignan Pays d’Oc Sans Sulphites 2022 (£17.95 from Cellar Door Wines)
Château Guéry Carignan Pays d’Oc Sans Sulphites 2022 is an exceptional wine from the Languedoc-Roussillon region, specifically from the Pays d’Oc appellation.
Château Guéry is known for its commitment to natural winemaking practices, including the production of sulphite-free wines (hence Sans Sulphites on the label).
This approach allows the pure fruit flavours to shine through, offering a more authentic expression of the terroir.
The 2022 vintage is crafted from Carignan grapes harvested from some of the estate’s oldest vines, which are over 60 years old. This wine is characterised by its
vibrant cherry red colour and an intense nose of red berry fruits, with hints of vanilla.
On the palate, it is soft and full-flavoured, with a smooth, easy-drinking finish. The absence of sulphites enhances the freshness and elegance of the wine, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for a natural and expressive wine. It pairs beautifully with poultry, roasted pork, and spicy dishes, as well as a variety of cheeses and cured meats.
Both of these wines showcase the versatility and unique qualities of the Carignan grape, offering wine lovers a chance to explore different expressions of this historic varietal. Whether you prefer the traditional approach of La Mécanique Old Vine Carignan 2021 or the natural, sulphite-free style of Château Guéry Carignan Pays d’Oc Sans Sulphites 2022, there is something to enjoy and appreciate in each bottle.
Talking of Cellar Door Wines, it would be reminisce of me not to tell you about the Festive Wine Tasting of the year that they are hosting at St Albans Museum + Gallery. Taking place on Friday November 22, with the choice of two sessions (5.30-7.30pm and 7.30-9.30pm) so you spend more time tasting and less time queuing.
