Rare Vineyards Carignan Vieilles Vignes (2024)
LGI Wines / IGP Pays d'Hérault, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
The Rustic, Velvet-Smooth Languedoc Heritage Red
Deep purple-ruby in the glass. The nose is fragrant and savory, opening with aromas of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, sweet violets, and a gentle touch of cracked black pepper and thyme. Medium-to-full-bodied on the palate with a smooth, velvety entry, plush dark fruit flavors, rounded tannins, and a warm, spiced finish.
⭐⭐ (Sits around 12.5% to 13% ABV. Vinified cleanly to emphasize soft fruit over harsh tannins, it drinks very smoothly without feeling heavy on the head).
Roast lamb chops, British shepherd's pie, rich beef casserole, or a platter of sharp cheddar and charcuterie.
When you're in a country without vineyards, you're at the mercy of the local Marks and Spencer—and it’s always satisfying to stumble across an old-vine Carignan on the shelf. Young Carignan can be notoriously rough, but sourcing from ancient vines in the South of France tames the beast completely. It drops the aggressive acidity for rich blackberry jam, floral violet, and a nice savory herb kick. It’s plush, velvety, deeply satisfying, and easily one of the most interesting budget reds you can grab off a high-street rack.