Carignan and Cost-effective wines

Carignan is a red grape variety that is widely planted in the Mediterranean regions of France, Spain, and Italy. It is also known as Mazuelo in Spain and Cariñena in Catalonia. It was once one of the most widely planted grape varieties in France, but it has since fallen out of favor in many regions due to its reputation for producing low-quality, high-yielding wines. However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Carignan, especially in the form of old-vine plantings, which can produce complex and concentrated wines.

 

Carignan wines are known for their deep color and high tannins, which give them a firm, structured character. The flavors of Carignan wines can vary depending on the climate and winemaking style, but they typically have notes of dark fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. In cooler climates, Carignan can produce wines with bright acidity and flavors of red fruit, while in warmer climates, it tends to produce more full-bodied, rich wines with ripe black fruit flavors.

 

Carignan is often used as a blending grape, particularly in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France, where it is often combined with Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre to produce bold, full-bodied wines. However, there are also many examples of varietal Carignan wines, especially from old-vine plantings, which can produce complex and nuanced wines with a strong sense of terroir.

 

Here are 5 Carignan wines under $20 that you might enjoy

• La Vieille Ferme Ventoux Rouge: This French red blend features Carignan, Grenache, and Syrah, and offers flavors of dark berries, spice, and herbs. It typically retails for around $10-12.

• La Atalaya del Camino: Hailing from the Almansa region of Spain, this Carignan-Monastrell blend offers flavors of black cherry, plum, and a hint of vanilla. It typically retails for around $15.

• La Posta Pizzella Malbec: While not a pure Carignan wine, this Argentine Malbec blend features a small amount of Carignan that contributes to its tannic structure and dark fruit flavors. It typically retails for around $18-20.

• Domaine de Fontsainte Corbières Rouge: This French red blend features Carignan, Grenache, and Syrah, and offers flavors of blackberry, licorice, and herbs. It typically retails for around $16-18.Les Vignerons de Fontès Les Trois P'tits C: This Carignan-Grenache blend hails from the Languedoc region of France, and offers flavors of red fruit, spice, and a hint of earthiness. It typically retails for around $10-12.

 

Here are 10 Carignan wine pairings to try

1. Grilled meats: Carignan's firm tannins and bold flavors make it an excellent pairing for grilled meats like steak, lamb, and pork.
2. Spicy foods: The spice and earthy undertones in Carignan make it a great match for spicy dishes like Indian curries or Mexican mole.
3. Stews and casseroles: The rich, concentrated flavors of Carignan are well-suited to hearty stews and casseroles, like beef bourguignon or ratatouille.
4. Charcuterie and cheese: Carignan's bold flavors and high tannins make it an ideal pairing for rich, savory charcuterie and cheese plates.
5. Tomato-based dishes: The acidity in Carignan can complement the acidity in tomato-based dishes like pizza, pasta, or ratatouille.
6. Roasted vegetables: The earthy flavors in Carignan can bring out the sweetness in roasted vegetables like beets, carrots, or squash.
7. Barbecue: Carignan's bold flavors and firm tannins make it a great match for smoky, barbecue flavors, like pulled pork or smoked brisket.
8. Mediterranean dishes: Carignan's origins in the Mediterranean make it a natural pairing for dishes from the region, like moussaka, paella, or roasted eggplant.
9. Braised meats: The rich, concentrated flavors of Carignan make it an excellent pairing for slow-braised meats like short ribs or lamb shanks.
10. Chocolate desserts: Carignan's high tannins can stand up to rich, chocolatey desserts like flourless chocolate cake or chocolate mousse.