Carménère began its journey in Bordeaux, France, where it was once widely grown. After phylloxera devastated Bordeaux vineyards in the 19th century, Carménère nearly disappeared from Europe—while unknowingly thriving under the name “Merlot” in Chilean vineyards. Only in the 1990s was its true identity rediscovered, and since then, Chile has embraced Carménère as its own. Today, Chilean winemakers are honing techniques to bring out the grape’s fruit, spice, and signature savory flavors, making it a point of national pride and a symbol of Chilean wine renaissance.
Carménère
Region: Europe
Carménère is a deeply colored, lush red grape most famously grown in Chile. Once mistaken for Merlot, Carménère now stands out for its expressive aromas, juicy dark fruit, and characteristic green pepper notes. It produces medium to full-bodied wines with velvety tannins and an unmistakable herbal twist, making it a flagship grape of Chilean viticulture and a favorite for wine lovers seeking something both familiar and distinctly South American.
Tasting Notes
Taste Profile
- Very Dry
- Full Body
- Moderate Tannins
- Moderate Acidity
- Approximately 14%
The History of Carménère
FAQs About Carménère
What foods pair well with Carménère?
Carménère is perfect with grilled meats, roasted pork, spiced lamb, empanadas, and dishes featuring peppers or smoky flavors.
What does Carménère taste like?
It’s known for lush plum and blackberry fruit, fresh green bell pepper, hints of black pepper, and a smooth, velvety texture.
Is Carménère only grown in Chile?
While Chile is Carménère’s spiritual and practical home, small plantings exist in Italy, France, the US, and elsewhere.
How should Carménère be served?
Serve slightly below room temperature (around 16–18°C or 60–65°F) to showcase its fruit and savory complexity.
Can Carménère wines age?
Quality Carménère can age gracefully for 5–8 years, developing more earth, cocoa, and tobacco notes alongside mellowed tannins.
Meta description: Explore Carménère, Chile’s emblematic red grape. Discover its Bordeaux origins, plum and pepper flavors, taste profile, and get answers to Carménère FAQs.