Cinsault
Red wine grape variety
Also known as Cinsaut, Ottavianello (Puglia), Ottavianello, Ottaviano
Cinsault is a red wine grape with signature aromas of blood orange peel, strawberry, rose. Structure: Medium(−) body, Medium acidity, Low tannin, Medium alcohol. Often confused with Grenache and Pinot Noir.
Recognition cues
First checks
- Check for fragrant red fruit with low tannin and medium-minus body.
- Look for floral tone and gentle texture before assigning Pinot Noir (#9279) or Grenache (#4461).
Confidence signals
- Rose and strawberry profile
- Soft tannin with lifted aromatics
Aromas
Signature
Common
Occasional
Commonly confused with
Classic anchors
- Classic regions: Languedoc · Bekaa Valley · Swartland · Minervois
- Classic styles: Light fragrant Mediterranean red · Blend softener in southern French reds
Common questions
Is Cinsault a red or white grape variety?
Cinsault is a red wine grape variety.
What does Cinsault smell and taste like?
Signature aromas of Cinsault include blood orange peel, strawberry and rose. Structural profile: Medium(−) body, Medium acidity, Low tannin, Medium alcohol.
What blind-tasting cues distinguish Cinsault?
Documented tells for Cinsault: Check for fragrant red fruit with low tannin and medium-minus body. and Look for floral tone and gentle texture before assigning Pinot Noir (#9279) or Grenache (#4461)..
What is Cinsault most often confused with in blind tasting?
Cinsault is most commonly confused with Grenache, Pinot Noir and Carignan. Resolve the call with structure and signature aromas.
Where is Cinsault grown?
Classic regions for Cinsault include Languedoc, Bekaa Valley, Swartland and Minervois.