Carménère

Carménère is a historic red grape from Bordeaux, but today it is most strongly associated with Chile. For many years it was confused with Merlot there, before being recognised as a distinct variety and developing into one of Chile's signature red wine styles.

Typical Carménère combines blackberry, plum, spice, herbs, pepper and a characteristic bell-pepper note that can be elegant when the grapes are fully ripe. The wines are usually medium to full-bodied, with supple tannins and a smooth, savoury texture.

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€ 219,93/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

€ 219,93/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

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What does Carménère taste like?

Carménère often smells of blackberry, black cherry, plum, cocoa, tobacco, pepper, dried herbs and roasted red pepper. Its green or paprika-like note is part of the grape's identity, but in good wines it feels ripe and integrated rather than raw.

The palate is usually generous and velvety, with moderate acidity, soft to medium tannins and warm spice. Oak can add vanilla, cedar or chocolate tones, especially in fuller Chilean examples.

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€ 345,20/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

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Where does Carménère come from?

Carménère originated in Bordeaux, where it is now only a minor variety. Its modern fame comes from Chile, where the grape found suitable growing conditions and was eventually identified after long confusion with Merlot.

Important Chilean regions include Colchagua, Maipo, Cachapoal, Maule and Aconcagua. Small plantings also exist in other countries, but Chile remains the clearest reference point for Carménère today.

What styles of Carménère wine are there?

Carménère is most often made as a dry red wine, from juicy, fruit-forward bottles to richer, oak-aged styles with dark fruit, chocolate and spice. The best examples balance ripeness with freshness and avoid excessive greenness.

It can also appear in Bordeaux-style blends, where it contributes colour, softness and herbal depth. Rosé and experimental styles are possible but not central to the grape's international identity.

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€ 258,53/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

€ 258,60/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

What food pairs with Carménère?

Carménère is excellent with grilled beef, lamb, pork ribs, burgers, smoky barbecue, roast peppers, aubergine, mushrooms and dishes seasoned with cumin, paprika or coriander. Its soft tannins and savoury spice suit richly flavoured food.

It also works well with mildly spicy Latin American or Middle Eastern dishes, especially when there is grilled meat or roasted vegetables involved. Avoid very delicate fish dishes, which can be overwhelmed.

Buy Carménère wine online

Carménère is a rewarding red for anyone who enjoys ripe dark fruit, smooth texture and a savoury herbal twist. It offers a distinctive Chilean alternative to Merlot or Cabernet-led styles.

Browse our Carménère wines to discover expressive reds that combine softness, spice and generous flavour with clear varietal character.

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