Carignan is not a grape with a great reputation. It is a frequent blending agent in the south of France, and in the past has contributed to Europe's "wine lake" issue. However, it has been grown on the Italian Island of Sardinia for a vey long time, and there has its very own DOC, Carignano del Sulcis. Although Italy's DOC system is not without its faults, and some wines that many people feel unworthy have been given DOC and even DOCG status, I live in hope of finding good wines in unexpected places.
The wine is a deep garnet in the glass, with significant browning towards the edges, due to bottle age. It is quite clear, indicating to me that it was fined and filtered before bottling. The aromas aren't robust, but I do get some hints of molasses, prune, and something almost cheesy. Like cheese rind. Not exactly fresh in the nose.....
The palate doesn't tell much of a different story. Maybe it's over the hill and has started to break down, but this is not a tasty wine at all. The first impression I get is a sunburnt fruit flavor that borders on metallic - like a tarnished silver spoon in your mouth. It improves somewhat with acquaintance, with some black pepper and stewed cherries coming out. The acid is good and the tannins are smooth, though the alcohol is a bit high. Unfortunately, through it all, that silver spoon taste remains, hanging on the finish long after the fruit has dissipated. Apparently Carignan can deserve its reputation sometimes....
Thumbs down.
Vintage: 2005
Region: Sardinia, Italy
Grape: Carignan
Price: $16
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