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Carignan – Grenache – Syrah is a popular blend of three dark-skinned grape varieties used extensively in southern France (Languedoc-Roussillon) and the northeast of Spain (Catalonia). Carignan and Grenache (Cariñena and Garnacha in Spanish) are widely planted along the Mediterranean coast, while Syrah is particularly famous for its role in the wines of the Rhone Valley.

The three components of the blend combine to make typically bright, lively, fruit-driven wines with moderate body and structure. A great deal depends on the viticultural and winemaking decisions of course.

Carignan contributes tannins, acidity and vibrant color to the mix, while Grenache delivers its trademark bright berryfruit flavors and high potential alcohol. Syrah – a generally better-rounded variety – serves to stabilize things a little, filling in the gaps with flavors of bramble fruits, cherries and sweet spices, and its natural balance of sugars, acids and tannins. The three varieties are key components of the classic Southern Rhone blend, and are often accompanied by Mourvedre.

Carignan is usually the minor member in this blend, and will rarely make up more than 30 percent of the blend. Winemakers usually prefer to focus on alluring Grenache and serious Syrah to establish a an attractive balance of flavor and structure. In fact, Grenache – Syrah blends are a big category themselves.

Food matches for Carignan – Grenache – Syrah wines include:

• Soup with pork, vegetables and beans
• Chilli con carne
• Lamb rack with aubergine purée