Carignan

Carignan, also known as Mazuelo in its birthplace of Spain, is a grape that is high in acid, tannin and colour. It can be harsh by itself, so is often blended with softer grapes like Cinsault. Carignan needs heat and time to ripen, so is best suited to a Mediterranean climate, like that of southern France or Spain. You will also find it in California, Chile and South Africa. The best Carignan tends to come from very old vines, and is often made in an unoaked style.