Carignan vs Grenache
How to tell them apart in a blind tasting
The clearest separator between Carignan and Grenache is acidity: Carignan is High while Grenache is Medium. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Structure compared
| Structure compared | Carignan | Grenache |
|---|---|---|
| Acidity | High | Medium |
| Tannin | Medium(+) | Medium |
| Body | Medium(+) | Medium(+) |
| Alcohol | High | High |
| Color intensity | Deep | Medium |
| Aromatic intensity | Medium | Medium(+) |
Signature aromas
Carignan
black cherrydried herbslicorice
Grenache
strawberryred plumwhite pepper
Common questions
- How do you tell Carignan and Grenache apart in a blind tasting?
- The clearest separator between Carignan and Grenache is acidity: Carignan is High while Grenache is Medium. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
- Is Carignan or Grenache higher in acidity?
- On the WSET ladder, Carignan is High and Grenache is Medium for acidity.
- Are Carignan and Grenache red or white?
- Carignan and Grenache are both red grape varieties.