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Article Summary
- Unintentional Discovery: The Carménère Surprise
- Key Takeaways
- Introduction: A Grape Resurrected
- The Lost Grape of Bordeaux
- The Chilean Surprise
- The Rise of Chilean Carménère
- FAQ Section
- What does Carménère taste like?
- Where is Carménère grown?
- Why was Carménère mistaken for Merlot?
- Is Carménère expensive?
- What food pairs well with Carménère?
- Conclusion: The Carménère Comeback
- Revisiting the Key Takeaways
Unintentional Discovery: The Carménère Surprise
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Key Takeaways
- The Carménère grape was thought to be extinct after the phylloxera plague in the 19th century.
- It was rediscovered in Chile in the mid-1990s, where it had been mistaken for Merlot.
- Carménère has since become a flagship grape for Chilean wine, known for its deep red color and spicy, fruity flavors.
- The grape’s resurgence has led to increased global interest and demand for Carménère wines.
- Despite its success, Carménère remains a challenging grape to grow and vinify, requiring specific climate conditions and careful handling.
Introduction: A Grape Resurrected
The story of the Carménère grape is one of loss, mistaken identity, and an unexpected resurgence. Once thought to be extinct, this grape variety has made a remarkable comeback, becoming a symbol of Chilean wine and capturing the attention of wine enthusiasts worldwide.
The Lost Grape of Bordeaux
Originating in Bordeaux, France, Carménère was one of the original six red grapes of this renowned wine region. However, the phylloxera plague in the mid-19th century devastated European vineyards, and Carménère was hit particularly hard. The grape was thought to have been wiped out, with no known specimens surviving the plague.
The Chilean Surprise
Fast forward to the mid-1990s in Chile, where a French ampelographer, Jean-Michel Boursiquot, made a startling discovery. He noticed that some vines labeled as Merlot were behaving differently, ripening later and displaying distinct leaf patterns. DNA testing confirmed his suspicions: these were not Merlot vines, but Carménère, a grape thought to be extinct for over a century.
The Rise of Chilean Carménère
Since its rediscovery, Carménère has become a flagship grape for Chilean wine. Its deep red color, combined with its unique blend of spicy, fruity flavors, has made it a favorite among wine enthusiasts. According to the Chilean Wine Bureau, exports of Carménère wines have grown by over 50% in the last decade, demonstrating the grape’s increasing global popularity.
FAQ Section
What does Carménère taste like?
Carménère is known for its deep red color and a unique blend of spicy, fruity flavors. It often has notes of green pepper, dark fruit, and sometimes a hint of chocolate.
Where is Carménère grown?
While Carménère originated in Bordeaux, France, it is now primarily grown in Chile. It has also been planted in small amounts in Italy, California, and China.
Why was Carménère mistaken for Merlot?
Carménère and Merlot vines have similar appearances, and their grapes share some flavor characteristics. This led to Carménère being misidentified as Merlot in Chile for many years.
Is Carménère expensive?
While prices vary, Carménère wines are generally affordable. Many high-quality bottles can be found for under $20.
What food pairs well with Carménère?
Carménère pairs well with a variety of foods, including grilled meats, hearty stews, and dishes with strong, spicy flavors.
Conclusion: The Carménère Comeback
The story of Carménère is a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of careful observation. From its near extinction in Europe to its mistaken identity in Chile, this grape has endured and thrived, becoming a symbol of Chilean wine and a favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide. Despite its challenges, the Carménère grape continues to surprise and delight, proving that sometimes, the most rewarding discoveries are the ones we never expected.
Revisiting the Key Takeaways
- The Carménère grape, once thought extinct, was rediscovered in Chile in the mid-1990s.
- Mistaken for Merlot, Carménère has since become a flagship grape for Chilean wine.
- Known for its deep red color and unique flavor profile, Carménère has gained global popularity.
- Despite its success, Carménère remains a challenging grape to grow and vinify.
- The story of Carménère is a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of careful observation.
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