Carménère, the Chilean Grape Variety Rising in Prominence

Uruguay has its Tannat, Argentina its Malbec, and Chile its Carménère. Although little known, this Bordeaux grape variety—which has rightfully reclaimed its place at the top of the podium in recent years—is enjoying a surge in popularity and is establishing itself among Chile’s finest wines.

Carménère: The Rediscovered Forgotten Grape Variety

It’s a story you hear in every winery in Chile. In 1991, a French oenologist near Santiago de Chile took a closer look at some grapevines unlike any others, located in the middle of a Merlot vineyard. Both the grapes and the leaves were different, and the ripening process took longer…. Doubt sets in: this grape variety resembles Merlot, but it is undoubtedly not Merlot.

Amidst the Merlot, Carménère stands out in the wine world

The mystery is set, and it will take three years to solve it: it is Carménère, an old Bordeaux grape variety that had fallen into general obscurity for nearly a century. So what are these Carménère vines doing in the middle of Chilean vineyards? The crux of the story is phylloxera, the ruthless parasites that ravaged vineyards worldwide in the early 20th century, wiping out many grape varieties. Carménère was thought to have disappeared, but in Chile, it successfully resisted the invader.

Carménère, the ambassador of Chilean fine wines

Chile's premium wineries are highlighting Carménère

Chile’s vineyards soar proudly toward the Andean sky, tall and majestic, producing grapes destined for ultra-modern wineries. These massive structures harness gravity, while semi-underground cellars maintain a natural coolness, alongside amphorae, concrete eggs, and state-of-the-art tanks. In these state-of-the-art, meticulously designed cellars, the ancient Carménère grape reigns supreme. Following its rediscovery, wineries identified it, set it apart, and vinified it separately before proudly propelling it to the forefront of the Chilean wine scene. The wines are colorful, round, and easy-drinking, with a rich aromatic profile dominated by black fruits. Depending on the winemaking method, they exhibit varying levels of acidity, chocolatey flavors, spicy notes, pepper, and green bell pepper, and can offer remarkable aromatic complexity.

Recommendation: the 100% Carménère from the Max Réserva range at Errazuritz Winery in the Aconcagua Valley. Unbeatable value for a great Carménère. With an alcohol content of 14%, this fine red wine offers a dense and concentrated palate, while remaining elegant and smooth.

Food and wine pairings with Chilean Carménère

Carménère red wines are generally full-bodied and rounded. Pairing food with a Carménère wine is therefore not always straightforward. Slightly spicy dishes can hold their own against the intensity of Carménère wines; red meats provide a good foundation for food and wine pairings; and grilled meats generally pair well with concentrated, full-bodied wines.

For those looking to add a touch of lightness and originality to their meal while staying true to the summer theme, delicately seasoned and spicy Mediterranean salads pair perfectly with Carménère. They bring freshness and a hint of acidity, complementing the wine’s roundness and supporting its full-bodied character.

Get ready for a treat—it’s a pleasure to meet you!