Carmenere: the grape that re-emerged in the New World

Chile is recognized as one of the main wine producers in the world not only for its quality but also for its variety of wines. Of all the cultivated varietals, Carmenere is the most emblematic and representative of the country. It should not be forgotten that, although it is the most representative, it is not the one with the largest vineyard extension, which corresponds to Cabernet Sauvignon for red grapes and Sauvignon Blanc for white grapes. The Carmenere grape, however, has achieved its own identity in Chile, and has conquered the world.  

The grape originates from France in the Bordeaux area.  In the 19th century, the phylloxera epidemic almost wiped out all the vineyards in this country, forcing winemakers to start over with their plantations of Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Carménère. Their efforts paid off and most of the vines managed to re-emerge, but the Carménère could not adapt to the cold spring and early autumn rains in Bordeaux and became extinct.

However, in 1850, a decade before the phylloxera plague, a few Carménère vines were brought to Chile by European emigrants. The vine was planted alongside Merlot and Cabernet and for years Carménère was marketed as these two varieties. This changed at the end of the nineties when it was identified with much surprise that a type of Merlot produced in Chile was not a Merlot but a varietal of Carmenere.  From then on Chilean winemakers started to develop it as we know it today. 

The most emblematic valleys for Carmene are Colchagua, Maipo and Maule. The first one has a large extension of up to 3,600 hectares and is considered the heart of Chilean Carmenère, it has an ideal Mediterranean climate and diverse soils that allow this grape to develop an aromatic complexity and a robust body. The Maipo Valley has 709 hectares and although known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, it also produces excellent Carmenère. The soils of this valley, with a greater presence of sand, give the wines elegance and subtlety. The Maule Valley, with 2,201 hectares, although less known, is emerging as one of the most relevant regions. Wines from this area tend to have a more rustic and earthy character, with notes of spices and herbs.

Younger Carmenère wines tend to be fruitier, while older wines develop more complex flavours. In general, these wines have an intense dark red colour, with purple tones. On the nose, they offer a wide range of aromas, from ripe red fruits such as cherries and plums, to spicy and herbaceous notes, such as black pepper and paprika. Their taste is a combination of ripe black fruit (plums, blackberries), red fruit (cherries, raspberries) and spicy notes (pepper, tobacco). Its wines are characterized by being elegant, medium to full-bodied, with soft tannins and a long, lingering finish. 

They are versatile wines that pair well with a variety of dishes, from grilled red meats, roasted vegetables, spicy dishes or even mature cheeses.