From: a "Vin de France" from the Rhône Valley, France

Varietal: Carignan

Tasting Notes: Carambouille is a wine that shouldn’t really exist. Why? Mainly because of its price. We’ll explain – lighter red wines (not rosé) coming from anywhere in the Rhone valley, from the posh north with the likes of Dard & Ribo (older vintages) through the chic Ardeche with Steen, sage, and others to the south with l’Anglore and his disciples, these kinds of wines will cost you at least double (more). The aforementioned are huge names, and there is no direct comparison. HOWEVER, the concept remains; grapes full of flavor from these sun-soaked regions made into delicate red wines with under 14% alcohol are a pretty appetizing prospect. And as they do, Vigneron d’Estezargues simply flip the script with amazing ease and come up with Carambouille 2021, and just so that we enjoy it to the maximum, they used a clear bottle with a lovely label. Perfect. We recommend serving slightly chilled but not cold (15-20 minutes in the fridge)

Pairing: Thanks to its pronounced acidity, high tannins, and meaty notes, Carignan wine is an excellent partner for flavorful meat dishes such as spicy lamb meatballs, or roasted pork. It also pairs well with rich poultry dishes like smoked turkey legs. 

You can also try Cariñena with pastas featuring earthy vegetables such as eggplant lasagne, mushroom risotto, or pumpkin ravioli. Naturally, it's also fantastic with charcuterie (sausage, bacon, ham, terrines) that pick up on the wine's notes of cured meat.

For delectable cheese pairings, you can't miss with rich, full-flavored cheeses like Parmesan, aged Gouda, and manchego. 

For dessert, a red wine like Carignan goes great with anything dark chocolate. You can also try bringing out its fruity flavors with complimentary desserts such as cherry pie, raspberry parfait, or fresh berries. Another yummy idea: enhance the wine's spiced notes by pairing it with sweet or savory foods that have a hint of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, or allspice.