Carménère, a French wine grape variety, has a history deeply rooted in the Bordeaux vineyards, where it was once an essential component of the blends. Its name, evoking the carmine hue of its autumn leaves, is a testament to its character. Long neglected following the trials of the 19th century (phylloxera and frosts), Carménère is now making a comeback, as seen at Château Cazebonne, where it is being replanted alongside other lost Bordeaux grape varieties. Its revival is a quest for diversity and terroir expression, giving it the opportunity to reveal its complex aromatic palette and ageing potential.

Ampelographic profile

Characteristic	Description
Budburst	Early, like Cabernet Franc.
Ripening	2nd epoch, relatively late (shortly before Cabernet Sauvignon).
Vigour	Vigorous.
Susceptibility to downy mildew	Relatively susceptible.
Susceptibility to powdery mildew	Relatively susceptible.
Susceptibility to black rot	Susceptible.
Susceptibility to grey rot	Susceptible.
Aromatic profile	Green pepper if underripe, otherwise ripe red fruits, spices (black pepper, clove), tobacco, dark chocolate, liquorice. Notes of undergrowth and truffle with age.
Winemaking potential	Intense, deeply coloured, structured red wines, with fine and firm tannins. Excellent ageing potential.

A grape variety with a unique character

Despite its qualities, Carménère was gradually abandoned, mainly due to its susceptibility to disease and irregular yields. Winemakers of the past preferred more robust grape varieties. Yet, its wine is renowned for its body, its intense colour and its ability to bring mellowness and roundness to blends. It was once reserved for the great wines of Bordeaux, particularly in the Médoc, specifically at Château Dillon, where it left an indelible mark, notably thanks to its aromatic complexity and its ability to age well. It was particularly appreciated for its natural freshness and bouquet.

At Château Cazebonne, we are proud to help rediscover this historic grape variety. This work is part of a broader approach to replanting and promoting the forgotten grape varieties of Bordeaux. Through our efforts, we wish to enrich the panorama of Bordeaux wines and offer new expressions of our terroir. Support our initiative by receiving the digital version of the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" to learn more about this heritage, test your knowledge with our oenological quizzes, and discover our passionately crafted cuvées at the Cazebonne boutique, where Carménère and other rediscovered grape varieties fully express themselves.