Herbaceous and dry with notes of spices, like nutmeg
Originally from Spain, where it is most commonly known as Mazuelo or Carinena, Carignane is widely grown in the southern parts of France. Depending on the locality, it can appear under a wide array of synonyms, in fact, Carignane with an extra e is the Californian synonym.
Popular in France, Spain and California this variety is generally pretty lavish in the sense that not only is it high in acidity, color and tannins, but also yields. It is most commonly used as a deep coloring component in blends.
When the grape has been under a winemaker’s careful attention, it can be tamed into a rather delicate creature with notes of dark fruits, like blackberries and black currants.