Wines made from Carmenère grapes of Vin de Pays
Discover the best wines made with Carmenère as a single variety or as a blend of Vin de Pays.
Velvety, deep reds with a dark robe and round tannins, showing aromas of blackberry, plum, ripe red pepper, dark chocolate, coffee and gentle spice. Warm, supple finish. Absolute star of Chile (Colchagua, Cachapoal, Maipo) where it was rediscovered in 1994, long confused with Merlot. A historic Bordeaux variety that nearly vanished after phylloxera, a cross of Cabernet Franc × Gros Cabernet.
Intermediate category between AOC and Vin de France (renamed IGP in 2009), 27% of national volume. Accessible, expressive wines defined by their grape: opulent Chardonnay, lively Sauvignon, round Merlot, peppery Syrah, floral Viognier with apricot. 76 IGP in France at 3 scales: regional (Pays d'Oc, Méditerranée, Val de Loire), departmental or local. Flexible rules, wide range of permitted grapes, free grape and vintage labelling.