Opulenza Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenere Red Wine 750ml

Opulenza Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenere Red Wine.

Cabernet Sauvignon – Carmenère is a blend of two dark red grape varieties both native to Bordeaux in southwestern France. Cabernet Sauvignon has become one of the world’s most transplanted varieties whilst Carmenère, conversely, has all but disappeared from its homeland and is now Chile’s signature grape. The two are most often seen blended together in the vineyards of this South American country.

Opulenza Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenere Red Wine Characteristics

This blend is not as ubiquitous as the Cabernet – Merlot blend, although shares a similar philosophy: the Carmenère occupies the same space in the wine as Merlot. Cabernet Sauvignon’s classic structure, tannins and blackcurrant flavors are countered here by Carmenère’s smooth, rounded palate.

The latter variety also has some vegetal notes of tomato leaf and green beans. While the wines are perhaps less full-bodied than varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, there is still room for oak maturation.

Proportions

While there are no official blending conventions, Cabernet Sauvignon is often the dominant of the two, although some high-quality, Carmenère-dominant examples exist. Proportions can vary between vintages (as Chilean wine laws are not as strict as those in Europe), and the final blend will often depend on the late-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon.

Opulenza Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenere Red Wine Food pairings

Food pairings for Cabernet Sauvignon – Carménère wines generally revolve around matching the well-structured, tannic yet often fruit-forward style of modern conventional winemaking. As such a wide range of robust dishes can go with such wines, including bell peppers stuffed with beef, Chili con Carne or even a classic, grilled porterhouse steak.

In the main, look for hearty, meat-based dishes or more full-flavored or grilled vegetarian and vegan dishes.