3.11 | Regionally Important Varieties - Carmenére, Malbec & Pinotage

Question 1

What are the main characteristics of Carmenere?

Answer 1

black variety. Grown in Chile. Native to Bordeaux but rarely found there now.
needs long, sunny growing season
deeply colored.
medium to high acidity
high tannins
full body
matured in oak which adds coffee and chocolate.
very good Carmenere can develop tertiary characteristics
if not fully ripe ->herbaceous flavors
if ripe -> fresh black-fruit (blackberry), herbal (eucalyptus)

Question 2

what are common blending partners for Carmenere?

Answer 2

Cabernet and Merlot

Question 3

What is Argentina’s most important grape variety?

Answer 3

Malbec (though it is native to SW France)

Question 4

Where is Malbec most widely planted?

Answer 4

Mendoza, Argentina

Question 5

What are the characteristics of Malbec?

Answer 5

full-bodied
deeply colored
high tannin
black fruit (blackberry, black plum)

Question 6

is Malbec matured in oak?

Answer 6

Yes. New oak imparts clove and vanilla

Question 7

What are tertiary aromas that very good to outstanding Malbec can develop?

Answer 7

Dried fruit, meat

Question 8

What are common blending partners for Malbec?

Answer 8

Cabernet, Merlot. Also produced single-varietal

Question 9

True/False: Pinotage originated in France

Answer 9

False. It was developed for the dry climate of South Africa

Question 10

What are the main characteristics of Pinotage?

Answer 10

Red-fruit flavors (red cherry, strawberry, raspberry) - it is closely related to Pinot Noir
medium tannins
high acidity
styles range from fruity and medium-bodied to powerful and full-bodied

Question 11

What are oak-derived flavors in Pinotage?

Answer 11

coffee, chocolate, smoke