Carmenere

Carmenère has one of wine’s great identity-crisis stories. Originally from Bordeaux, it was once a familiar part of the region’s blends, especially in the Médoc during the 18th century. After phylloxera devastated European vineyards, the grape all but disappeared from France. Meanwhile, in the mid-19th century, cuttings were shipped to Chile, where Carmenère was planted and happily grown for decades under the assumption that it was Merlot.

That confusion lasted until the late 20th century, when DNA testing revealed that Chile had been quietly nurturing a grape Bordeaux had nearly lost. With that discovery, Carmenère found its true home. Chile’s long, warm growing seasons suit its late-ripening nature perfectly, and regions like Colchagua Valley have become especially known for producing confident, expressive examples. Today, Carmenère is widely considered Chile’s signature red.

In the glass, Carmenère is dark, generous, and unmistakable. Expect flavors of blackberry and black cherry, often layered with herbal notes, green pepper, spice, tobacco, or a hint of chocolate. Tannins are moderate to firm, acidity is balanced, and the wines feel plush without being heavy. It’s a natural match for grilled meats, savory dishes, and anything that plays well with its herbal edge, and a great example of how a grape can lose its way, then find a better one.