Although it is listed as one of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux, Carménère is all but impossible to find in France today. After a phylloxera plague in the mid-19th century, the vines were nearly all destroyed in Europe and presumed extinct. But the grape lived on, unbeknownst to anyone, in the grape growing regions of Chile where some speculate it was mistaken for Merlot and thus unwittingly preserved over the last 150 years. Indeed the two grapes share a common ancestor and are strikingly similar in appearance. Commonly used as a blending grape, but as a varietal wine Carménère is known for its deep red color, gentle tannins, and fruit-forward character with earthy notes.

Growing Carménère is all but unheard of in Bordeaux today, but the grape has thrived in the vineyards of Chile where it has become the country’s leading red grape. The resulting wine is a full-bodied, dry red with aromas and flavors of red fruit and berries, plum, and floral notes. 

Our Chile Carménère follows the classic description, characterized by flavors of raspberry, red cherry, and plum. Medium-bodied and dry with a moderate oak presence. This red wine weighs in at the higher end of the spectrum with an alcohol level of 13.5% by volume. This Carmenere wine kit includes medium toast French oak chips. Medium toast French oak is subtle and provides refined flavors of custard, chocolate, and spice. French oak in general is often used by winemakers when they want to increase the mouthfeel and complexity of a wine without stepping on or suppressing the fruit.

The VineCo Estate Carménère is the perfect wine for those that enjoy the spice of life. Or maybe more specifically, those that enjoy spice in their meals. Carménère pairs wonderfully with dishes that have a kick. Lamb curry, spicy pork sausage, Chile con Carne—these mouth watering foods are great options to enjoy with a glass of this delicious red wine. Carménère shouldn’t only be poured alongside hot dishes, but if you’re looking for something to pair with a meal that raises your heart rate, you’ve found it here.

Carménère, Chile

• Raspberry, red cherry, and plum
• Sweetness: Dry
• Oak: Medium
• Body: Medium
• ABV: 13.5%
• Kit Volume: 10 L
• Approximate Yield: 23 L
• Ready to bottle in 6 weeks
• Bottle Labels sold separately