Carignan

The underdog that always brings the party.

Carignan is like that friend who’s always down for a good time-unassuming, yet secretly the life of the party. This red grape, originally from Spain but now strutting its stuff in places like France and the New World, is often overlooked but never outdone. It’s the wine equivalent of a hearty handshake and a brash laugh; it’s not here to whisper sweet nothings, but instead to share a few rounds of merriment.

You pop open a bottle and you’re hit with a wave of dark fruit-think black cherries, overripe plums, and a whiff of blackberries as if someone squished them under foot before the winemaker got to it. There’s earthiness too; imagine the dirt from a good hiking trail after rain and just a hint of herby wildness. It’s like stepping into the Mediterranean sun after a long winter-warm, bright, and somewhat cheeky.

When it comes to tasting, Carignan isn’t shy. It’s got tannins that give your mouth a firm yet friendly squeeze-nothing like a barrage from a Cabernet Sauvignon, but enough to remind you it means business. This grape thrives in the heat, resulting in wines that can be both robust and refined-a bit of fruit punch bathed in a rustic cloak of old-world charm.

You’ll find Carignan lounging comfortably in blends, especially in Châteauneuf-du-Pape or hiding out in a bold GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) party, but the single varietals? That’s where things get really interesting. These bottles are a joyous celebration of what this grape can do when scrubbed up nicely-expect vibrant acidity and a finish that lingers just long enough to make you want to pour another glass.

Food-wise, Carignan isn’t picky; it’s got your back with meats and veggies. Bring on the grilled sausages, pasta with rich ragu, or a simple charcuterie board. This wine wants to hang out with your food, not overshadow it.

Yet don’t mistake its pairing prowess for uniformity. Carignan loves to play around with age-some of the older vines produce absolute jewels, managing to tuck complexity under those cheerful fruit layers. You might just find notes of leather, tobacco, or even a weird hint of chocolate all sneakily hiding out below the surface.

In the wine world, it’s a lot like that quirky band you discover in a hole-in-the-wall dive bar that ends up becoming your go-to. You want to brag about it to your friends like, “You don’t know Carignan? You’re missing out!” And for those who do know, it’s a sly nod of appreciation-because good taste knows no bounds.

So, the next time you’re scrolling the wine list or rummaging through the shelves, give Carignan a shot. Because sometimes, it’s the underdog that delivers the most joyful surprises. It’s honest, bold, and there for the good times. That’s solid character in a glass.

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