Mourvèdre vs Carignan
Mourvèdre
A late-ripening black grape with firm tannin, dark fruit and a savory, meaty edge, strongly associated with Bandol and known as Monastrell in Spain.
- Firm tannin
- Blackberry
- Meaty, savory edge
Recognize it
Firm tannin with blackberry, black olive, dried herb and a savory, sometimes meaty or leathery edge. Young examples can feel austere.
Carignan
A deeply colored, high-acid, firm-tannin red grape common in southern France and northeastern Spain.
- Bramble fruit
- High acidity
- Firm tannin
Recognize it
Deep color, firm tannin and high acidity are the main structural clues. Bramble fruit and dried herbs are common, even in wines from warm regions.
How they compare
- SimilarDeep color, firm tannin and savory flavors.
- DifferenceMourvèdre tends to be meatier and more gamey.