Punica Montessu 2007 Varietal: Carignan Blend Region: Sardegna From Giacomo Tachis of Sassicaia fame comes this Super-Sardegnian blend of 60% Carignano, with 10% each of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah. Loaded with ripe fruits, showing a dry minerality, citrus notes, a hint of fresh bread and heady floral aromas. MORE >>

2005 Buchignani Ranch Zinfandel ** from 44 barrels of 96% zinfandel with 4% carignane from the same "small planting of old-vine zinfandel on the Buchignani Ranch on Dutcher Creek Road in the hills on the far western edge of the Alexander Valley appellation." 2007 York Creek (with 22% petite sirah) shows much more sex appeal. MORE >>

recently checked out some of their unique single varietal appellation wines (Carignan & Petite Sirah) and was so (surprisingly) impressed by their quality that I included them in a blog post  with some recommendations.  Prior to visiting the winery today I tried their LOW LEVEL supermarket 2007 "Private Collection" Cab/Merlot blend.  MORE >>

varietal that was planted in abundance at one point is Carignan, (AKA Carignana), which got its name from the subregion on Aragon "Carignena". Also of note, as long as we are discussing Carignan, is that it is the most widely planted grape in France today ( according to winepros.org - bet you didn't know that - I sure didn't). MORE >>

Is that because the natural versions exhibit the true flavors and aromas of carignan, for example? 2007 Haut la Vigne Côtes de Duras - 50-50 chardonnay and semillon. 2007 Comptoirs de Magdala La Chance Côtes de Provence - made by Antoine Pouponneau who makes wine at Tour du Bon in Bandol. Maybe a bit of both. MORE >>