Genetic profiling has revealed this heartily structured grape originally developed in northeastern Spain. Until recently, Carignane was the most widely planted grape in France, with large acreage devoted to the grape in the Languedoc region. However, Merlot took over the top spot during the last part of the 20th century when nearly half the Carignane vines were replanted to other varietals.
Carignane’s popularity in the industry was due to extremely high yields for the production of everyday table wines and some blending with Rhone varietals. However, the grapes’ high tannic and acid profiles are generally believed to prevent the grape from producing wines of finesse and balance.
This late ripening grape is extremely susceptible to powdery mildew and the tightly bunched clusters are prone to bunch rot.