Carignan - Beauty in a Glass

Uncork Your Mind

Last month on Winephabet Street we explored the Carignan grape with Tana Cole, Winemaker at Jessie’s Grove Winery in Lodi, California. We were also joined by the big boss - Owner Greg Burns.

Winephabet Street is a monthly series where Lori Budd of Exploring the Wine Glass and I work our way through the alphabet exploring wine and wine regions one letter at a time. The show is live on the third Monday at 8pm and is free, but you must register to attend. Put it on your calendar, pour yourself a glass of wine and hang out with us. (Dates do change due to our schedules)

Greg talks about the history of Jessie’s Grove Winery and it’s quite interesting. (no spoilers here, you have to listen or watch). Tana talks all about Carignan.

Carignan is a medium-bodied red wine and the grapes are grown mostly in southern France. It is also grown in Spain, where it is known as Carinena. Jessie’s Grove Winery in Lodi, California planted Carignan grapes in 1900. These vines are over 120 years old.

We got to taste the 2019 Jessie’s Grove Estate Carignane. This wine retails for $45. WOW! “It’s dense and complexity is beauty in a glass,” exclaimed Tana.

Very complex with layered aromas of cigar box, baking spice, cranberries and cinnamon. The palate is incredible. Very soft and romantic with notes of plum, and cranberry. There is a meatiness and earthiness to the wine. It is very easy drinking and beautiful.

Listen to the podcast and learn all about Jessie’s Grove Winery and the Carignan grape.