carmenere
Cuda Ridge Wines 2023 Carménère Release and Luncheon Celebration
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Last weekend Cuda Ridge Wines celebrated their Carmenere release with three new wines for 2023. The wines come from three different vineyards in Pleasanton and Livermore. More on the specifics of each vineyard and wines can be found at a previous story: https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2025/09/17/cuda-ridge-wines-2023-casa-de-vinas-carmenere-and-tri-tip-with-argentina-chimichurri-sauce/
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The event was a pre-paid tasting of his three 2023 Carménère wines and two of 2022 vintages with a Fusion Asian Taco luncheon.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
To start the luncheon off, Larry Dino the owner and winemaker, gave a brief history on Carménère grape from France to Chile and its plight and now resurgence. (note: I took several pictures but somehow always caught Larry with his hands moving and his eyes closed!)
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The tacos were prepared by Anthony Scott catering and were served at the same time along with a side of Kimchi fried rice. The idea was to taste each wine with all three tacos. Starting at the top left of the picture was called the “Somewhat” traditional tri-tip street taco prepared with tender tri-tip seasoned with an espresso and dark chocolate rub, accented with fresh onion and cilantro.
The second one on the top right was the Fusion Asian Beef taco with shredded beef, wild mushrooms infused with ginger and soy, finished with toasted sesame seeds.
And the third being the bottom right in the picture was the Korean BBQ Pork taco with marinated pork in a traditional Korean barbecue style, topped with a vibrant Asian slaw.
The wines were poured just before the guests arrived, waiting for each attendee to taste and enjoy the experience.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
At the conclusion of the luncheon Larry asked for a show of hands for which wine and taco was their favorite. While all had favorites the winning tacos were evenly split between the Fusion Asian Beef and Korean BBQ Pork.
The consensus was that the spicier 2023 Carménère wine from Casa de Viñas was excellent with a blander taco (the tri-tip) and the 2023 Little Dog Vineyard being softer and smoother was a great companion to the spicier taco’s specifically the Fusion Asian Beef taco.
We left the tasting room buying a couple of 2023 Carménère wines from Casa de Viñas. All three of the released 2023 wines are priced at $50/bottle. Historically his Carménère wines are rated 90 to 91 points from Wine Enthusiast and have received both Gold and Silver medals from SF Chronicle Wine Competitions. His 2023 have yet to be submitted for ratings or competitions.
The 2023 Carménère wines are a great compliment to his extraordinary line up of mostly Bordeaux varieties.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
Cuda Ridge Wines 2023 Casa de Viñas Carménère and Tri-tip with Argentina Chimichurri Sauce
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background and Comparison
This is the third wine review of Cuda Ridge Wines Carménère line up from three different vineyards. Constructed below is a simple guide in understanding each of these Carménère wines by Larry Dino, the owner and winemaker of Cuda Ridge Wines. While they have similar traits of Carménère each has its own distinct aroma and flavor profile/characteristics.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
| Cuda Ridge Carménère Wines | |||
| Little Dog Vineyard | Insel Family Vineyard | Casa de Viñas | |
| Alcohol Level | 13.60% | 13.30% | 13.50% |
| Barrel Treatment | 17 months in 50% new French and 50% neutral American oak | 17 months in 50% in new French and 50% in once used American oak | 17 months in 33% new French and 66% once used French oak |
| pH | 4.1 | 3.5 | 3.76 |
| Cases produced | 57 | 48 | 48 |
| Clone identification | Clone 2 | Clone 6 | Clone 3 |
| TA | 0.41 g/100ml | 0.46 g/100ml | 0.48 g/100ml |
| Note: | |||
| 1. pH means the concentration of hydrogen ions. Lower than the mid-point of 7 (scale 0-14) | |||
| contributes to the wine’s acidity, making it crisp and with a slight tartness. | |||
| 2. TA stands for Titratable Acidity, a measurement of total concentration of all acids present. This | |||
| is an indicator of the total amount of acid molecules which affects the wine’s taste, color, | |||
| microbial stability and overall balance. TA contributes to its ability to age and balance | |||
There are also different soil types and trellis systems used from vineyard to vineyard.
The Wine – 2023 Casa de Vinas Carmenere – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
On the eyes a similar magenta/purple coloring to the other that is as intriguing as the previous two Carménère wines. A medium to medium-heavy viscosity. On the nose this Casa de Viñas was extremely bright with floral aromas bursting out of the bottle and with Eucalyptus. In the glass counterbalanced with dusty earth, wet red brick and vanilla aromas. Once in the mouth blackberries and raspberries were dominant with a slight smokiness, earthiness and mushroom quality. On the palate a “milky mouthfeel” provided a subtle balance of acidity and tannins, a conjoined experience. On the finish pyrazines were present and kept in check along with a slight minerality. A very long-lasting and integrated conclusion.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Paired this evening with a seared and BBQ’ed tri-tip steak. The meat was tenderized and marinated for 24 hours in a Chaka sauce. Served with a delicious Argentina Chimichurri sauce drizzled over the meat slices. The sauce consisted of fresh flat-leaf parsley, cloves of garlic, shallot, red wine vinegar, coarse sea salt, dried oregano, red hot pepper flakes, ground black pepper and extra-virgin olive oil. All the ingredients were put together in a blender and allowed to marinate for 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Also served was a BBQ’ed Portabella mushroom and sauteed Brussel sprouts with bacon and button mushrooms.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Carménère is a versatile wine with its medium to medium-heavy body and balanced acidity. The chimichurri sauce brought out the herbaceous notes and BBQ-ing showcases its richness and earthiness with the smoky characteristics. This Carménère was the right one with the Argentina chimichurri sauce and meat.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
As a comparison, the key quality of the Little Dog Vineyard, it had an unbelievable smooth finish, the Insel Family Vineyard had additive qualities of spices and now Casa de Viñas with even more complexity. Having three options is key for your food choice. For example, just to have a sipping wine or with a non-spicy dish, the Little Dog Vineyard is perfect. Wanting to pair the wine with a medium spicy dish the Insel Family Vineyard is spot on! Casa de Viñas being the one to choose for a spicier meal.
A Brief History of Carménère
The history of the Carménère varietal is as fascinating as it is happenstance! It was once one of the grapes in the Médoc region of Bordeaux. It served a similar purpose as Petit Verdot does today – producing a deep red/purple ink on wines. It was one of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux. Carménère originates from the French word for crimson (carmin) which refers to the crimson color of the autumn foliage.
(Photo from Wikipedia)
When the Phylloxera plague hit in 1867 destroying most of the vineyards in Europe, many thought the Carménère grape was extinct. It wasn’t until 150 years later that it was discovered that Chile had preserved the Carménère grape thinking it was Merlot (from clippings planted from France). DNA confirmed that it was the missing 6th varietal of Bordeaux.
Carménère Today
Carménère grows mainly in Chile, specifically the Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley and in the Maipo Province. It is also grown in the Veneto region of Italy, and recently several wineries in Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, Napa and Calaveras are producing it, albeit in small quantities. Walla Walla, Washington also has some root stock growing in Carménère. In California only 111 acres are producing Carménère which accounts for .000075% of the red grape harvest. Interestingly while in California the red grape harvest was down 25%, Carménère harvest was up 10%. These numbers are from the USDA Grape Crush Report for 2024, their errata dated August 25, 2025.
The Winery
Go to https://www.CudaRidgeWines.com to read about their incredible wines offered. The list of awards for all his other wines is extensive with dozens and dozens of noteworthy awards.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2023 Cuda Ridge Wines “Insel Family Vineyard” Carménère
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
This story is part two of three on the three different vineyards that Cuda Ridge Wines makes their Carménère from. The first story was on “Little Dog Vineyard” and this being “Insel Family Vineyard”. Due up next will be the story on Casa de Viñas Vineyards. Will be doing a comparison between the three Carménère wines by Cuda Ridge Wines.
A Brief History of Carménère
The history of the Carménère varietal is as fascinating as it is happenstance! It was once one of the grapes in the Médoc region of Bordeaux. It served a similar purpose as Petit Verdot does today – producing a deep red/purple ink on wines. It was one of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux. Carménère originates from the French word for crimson (carmin) which refers to the crimson color of the autumn foliage.
(Photo from Wikipedia)
When the Phylloxera plague hit in 1867 destroying most of the vineyards in Europe, many thought the Carménère grape was extinct. It wasn’t until 150 years later that it was discovered that Chile had preserved the Carménère grape thinking it was Merlot (from clippings planted from France). DNA confirmed that it was the missing 6th varietal of Bordeaux.
Carménère Today
Carménère grows mainly in Chile, specifically the Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley and in the Maipo Province. It is also grown in the Veneto region of Italy, and recently several wineries in Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, Napa and Calaveras are producing it, albeit in small quantities. Walla Walla, Washington also has some root stock growing in Carménère. In California only 111 acres are producing Carménère which accounts for .000075% of the red grape harvest. Interestingly while in California the red grape harvest was down 25%, Carménère harvest was up 10%. These numbers are from the USDA Grape Crush Report for 2024, their errata dated August 25, 2025.
Uniqueness of Carménère
Photo from Pat Spangler from Spangler Vineyards/Oregon of Carménère Vineyard
As a varietal, it has the deep ruby coloring and aromas of red fruits. Tannins are softer and milder than Cabernet Sauvignon, thus its use in blending to soften a strong Cabernet. The use is like the use of Merlot in formulating an enjoyable blend. Chile produces a 100% Carménère which has a cherry and fruity flavor but has traces of smoke and earthy notes with the inky coloration.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2023 Cuda Ridge Carménère Insel Family Vineyard wine comes from Pleasanton on the western portion of Livermore Valley AVA. The vineyard is flat with sandy loam and loam soil. It is 100% Insel Family Vineyard Carménère. On the eyes, a medium-heavy viscosity wine with a unique inviting deep purple/maroon coloration. On the nose, ripe Bing cherries greeted the senses. The palate is where this wine excelled. First the bright cherry taste was intense and concentrated. Ripe juicy plums and dark fruits then came forth with a hint of soft, dry and wet earthen tones (minerality and forest floor) with black tea and leather in the background. The earthen notes are generally found in Chilean Carménère but not found too often in California. The finish was long lasting with mocha and pepper finishing off the enjoyment with a hint of Eucalyptus and Cedar counterbalanced with vanilla.
The Insel Family Vineyards Carménère compared to the Little Dog Vineyard possesses a bit more tannins and acidity which should be considered in the food pairings. It still was enjoyable with caressing tannins on the palate.
The wine is aged in new French oak barrels (50%) and once used American oak (50%) for 17 months. The wine comes in at 13.3% alcohol and is sold at $50/bottle. Only 48 cases were made so this will go fast. It will be released on September 27th and 28th at a release party at Cuda Ridge Wines.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine was specifically chosen to pair with the meal of Pork Tenderloin Tacos. Ingredients for the marinade included olive oil, fresh squeezed lime juice, honey, minced garlic cloves, cumin, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, kosher salt and flour tortillas. The pork tenderloin was cut up into small strips and added to the marinade for 8 hours in the refrigerator. The pork tenderloin was cooked in an iron skillet on the stove top with about one half the marinade. On a separate burner, the Street Corn Avocado Salsa was prepared. It included grilled corn, Serrano peppers, diced red onion, minced garlic, fresh squeezed lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, cumin and kosher salt. The tacos combined the three (shells, meat and street corn) and topped off with additional chopped cilantro to be served.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
We purposely cut back on the chili powder and Serrano peppers so as not to overpower the wine. This was critical as the tacos and wine were paired wonderfully and I was glad to have less heat in the dish. An interesting note is that we had plenty of pork left over and the next night we used it in a pork taco salad, and it tasted even better!
A very good pairing and if more peppers and spices were to be used you might consider a Merlot wine.
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Larry Dino, owner and winemaker at Cuda Ridge Wines, now has all six modern Bordeaux varietals available at the tasting room. The Carménère is the first locally produced wine varietal in the Livermore AVA.
One of the solid and simple marketing ideas that Larry devised is his coloring scheme: White label for his Reserve wines, Black label for his non-Bordeaux wines and purple label for his Bordeaux varietals. Obviously Carménère falls in his purple label.
His Carménère will surely garner many awards in the upcoming wine competitions. Truly a good price point given the uniqueness and scarcity of Carménère plantings in California and the only current Livermore grown Carménère being offered. Besides the Insel Family Vineyard Carménère he offers two other vineyards designated Carménère wines: Little Dog Vineyard and Casa de Viñas. All three Carménère wines will be released to the public on September 27th and 28th at the winery.
His awards for these delicious wines are as follows:
2020 Carménère Insel– Silver Medal, 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Competition
2020 Carménère Little Dog Vineyard – Wine Enthusiast, 92 points
2019 Carménère – Gold Medal, 2021 Orange County Fair
The list of awards for all his other wines is extensive and would direct you to his website to view the dozens and dozens of noteworthy awards.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2023 Cuda Ridge Wines Carménère from Little Dog Vineyard
Photo ©Michael Kelly
A Brief History of Carménère
The history of the Carménère varietal is as fascinating as it is happenstance! It was once one of the grapes in the Médoc region of Bordeaux. It served a similar purpose as Petit Verdot does today – producing a deep red/purple ink on wines. It was one of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux. Carménère originates from the French word for crimson (carmin) which refers to the crimson color of the autumn foliage.
(Photo from Wikipedia)
When the Phylloxera plague hit in 1867 destroying most of the vineyards in Europe, many thought the Carménère grape was extinct. It wasn’t until 150 years later that it was discovered that Chile had preserved the Carménère grape thinking it was Merlot (from clippings planted from France). DNA confirmed that it was the missing 6th varietal of Bordeaux.
Carménère Today
Carménère grows mainly in Chile, specifically the Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley and in the Maipo Province. It is also grown in the Veneto region of Italy, and recently several wineries in Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, Napa and Calaveras are producing it, albeit in small quantities. Walla Walla, Washington also has some root stock growing in Carménère. In California only 111 acres are producing Carménère which accounts for .000075% of the red grape harvest. Interestingly while in California the red grape harvest was down 25%, Carménère harvest was up 10%. These numbers are from the USDA Grape Crush Report for 2024, their errata dated August 25, 2025.
Uniqueness of Carménère
Photo from Pat Spangler from Spangler Vineyareds/Oregon of Carménère Vineyard
As a varietal, it has the deep ruby coloring and aromas of red fruits. Tannins are softer and milder than Cabernet Sauvignon, thus its use in blending to soften a strong Cabernet. The use is like the use of Merlot in formulating an enjoyable blend. Chile produces a 100% Carménère which has a cherry and fruity flavor but has traces of smoke and earthy notes with the inky coloration.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2023 Cuda Ridge Carménère Little Dog Vineyard wine lived up to and exceeded the key characteristics of Carménère. It is 100% Little Dog Vineyard Carménère.On the eyes, a medium-heavy viscosity wine with a unique inviting deep purple/maroon coloration. On the nose, ripe Bing cherries greeted the senses. The palate is where this wine excelled. First the bright cherry taste was intense and concentrated. Plums and dark fruits then came forth with a hint of soft dry and wet earthen tones (minerality and forest floor) with black tea and leather in the background. The earthen notes are generally found in Chilean Carménère but not found too often in California. The finish was long lasting with mocha and pepper finishing off the enjoyment with a hint of Eucalyptus and Cedar.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Of special note was the smoothness of the finish, silky and smooth tannins like a tranquil lake. This is unique to the varietal/grapes and the winemaking in which Larry Dino produces this wine.
The wine is aged in French oak barrels (50%) and neutral American oak (50%) for 17 months. The wine comes in at 13.6% alcohol and is sold at $50/bottle. Only 48 cases were made so this will go fast. It was just recently released at a club member event. This wine immediately after tasting made my annual “Best Wines” tasted for 2025 (full list published in December).
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
A twist to our normal food and wine pairing. Tasting this vintage for the first time, was unsure of its tasting profile and characteristics, being strong or mellow.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
So, two sauces were prepared this evening to go with the seared and BBQ’ed tri-tip steak. The first was an Argentina Chimichurri sauce consisting of fresh flat-leaf parsley, garlic, minced onion, distilled red wine vinegar, kosher salt, dried oregano, hot pepper flakes, ground black pepper and extra-virgin olive oil (the green sauce in the top of picture). The second sauce (on the bottom of picture) is generally used for a Caprese steak consisting of olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt and black pepper. Accompanied by a garden salad with pepita seeds, diced tomatoes, green onions and sharp cheddar cheese. Long and short grain wild rice were also served.
With the wine possessing smooth and silky tannins, the Argentina Chimichurri sauce worked best with the grilled meat and provided a scrumptious food and wine pairing.
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Larry Dino, owner and winemaker at Cuda Ridge Wines, now has all six modern Bordeaux varietals available at the tasting room. The Carménère is the first locally produced wine varietal in the Livermore AVA.
One of the solid and simple marketing ideas that Larry devised is his coloring scheme: White label for his Reserve wines, Black label for his non-Bordeaux wines and purple label for his Bordeaux varietals. Obviously Carménère falls in his purple label.
His Carménère will surely garner many awards in the upcoming wine competitions. Truly a good price point given the uniqueness and scarcity of Carménère plantings in California and the only current Livermore grown Carménère being offered. Besides the Little Dog Vineyard Carménère he offers two other vineyards designated Carménère wines: Insel Family Vineyard and Casa de Viñas. These other two will have stories written on them shortly. These two special Carménère wines will be released to the public on September 27th.
His awards for these delicious wines are as follows:
2020 Carménère Insel– Silver Medal, 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Competition
2020 Carménère Little Dog Vineyard – Wine Enthusiast, 92 points
2019 Carménère – Gold Medal, 2021 Orange County Fair
The list of awards for all his other wines is extensive and would direct you to his website to view the dozens and dozens of noteworthy awards.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2019 Spangler Vineyards Carménère and Jalapeño Chili -Two Winners on a Cool Evening
Photo ©Michael Kelly
History of Carménère
The history of the Carménère varietal is as fascinating as it is happenstance! It was once one of the grapes in the Médoc region of Bordeaux, one of the original historical seven grapes of Bordeaux. It originally served a similar purpose as Petit Verdot, producing a deep red ink on wines. Carménère originates from the French word for crimson (carmin) which refers to the crimson color of the autumn foliage.
Photo from Pat Spangler of Carménère Vineyard
When the Phylloxera plague hit in 1867 destroying most of the vineyards in Europe, many thought the Carménère grape was extinct. It wasn’t until 150 years later that it was discovered that Chile had preserved the Carménère grape thinking it was Merlot (from clippings planted from France). DNA confirmed that it was the missing 6th varietal of Bordeaux.
Carménère Today
Carménère grows mainly in Chile, specifically the Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley and in the Maipo Province. It is also grown in the Veneto region of Italy, and recently several wineries in Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, Napa and Calaveras are producing it, albeit in small quantities. The 2023 USDA Statistical Service showed only 78 acres planted of the 284,341 in the state of California or .00027%. Oregon and Washington also have some root stock growing in Carménère, but their summary of red wine grapes planted does not even breakout Carménère!
Uniqueness of Carménère
As a varietal, it has the deep ruby coloring and aromas of red fruits. Tannins are softer and milder than Cabernet Sauvignon, thus its use in blending to soften a strong Cabernet. The use is like the use of Merlot in formulating an enjoyable blend. Chile produces a 100% Carménère which has a cherry and fruity flavor but has traces of smoke and earthy notes with the inky coloration
The Winery
Photo from Spangler Vineyards website
Spangler Vineyards is located at 491 Winery Lane, in Roseburg, Oregon. Roseburg is halfway between Eugene and Grants Pass and is considered southern Oregon next to Hwy 5. Pat Spangler moved from Chicago, initially looking for a winery in Sonoma County, but found an established winery for sale in Oregon in 2004. Once on the property the warm weather and various micro-climates were perfect for him to pursue his passion for Bordeaux varietal wines, especially Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
His wines are focused on big, bold red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. He also features some Rhone favorites such as Syrah, Petite Sirah and Viognier. Additionally various sparkling wines, an unoaked Chardonnay and others fill out his offering. The total production is around 2,500 cases with almost all going to the wine club members.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Spangler Vineyards 2019 Carménère is from the southern Oregon vineyard called Griffin Creek. Just a bit more “earthy” than the 2020 review done November 2nd. The color was again a beckoning dark and enticing coloration. On the nose, this wine was amazing and possessed bountiful and alluring aromas of cherry and blueberry. On the palate, this was a strong and bold Carménère more reminiscent of a Chilean Carménère. On the palate, this was gritty and bold demanding your attention to its pedigree. The polarization on the palate was one of fruit and grittiness. Key was a “spicy clove” quality that was tantalizing and delicious. Red plum and green peppercorns frolicked and enticed the taste buds. At the conclusion a chewy and hearty wine, with leather and the concentrated fruits of plum and cherries provided a long finish. The tannins were structured with an edginess and spicy. The wine sells for $39/bottle and comes in at 13.5% alcohol. Only 139 cases were produced. Barrel treatment was 18 months in 1/3 new, 1/3 one year old and 1/3 two-year-old. The barrels were 50% American and 50% French. This wine has won 95 points at BTI/Tastings.com & Double Gold from SF Chronicle Competition, Double Gold at the Cascadia International Wine Competition 2023 and 93 points at Las Vegas Global Wine Awards.
This wine will make my annual Best Wines tasted during the year. Pat now makes three wines holding this distinction.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This cold (for California) evening in the high 40’s, a warm “comfort food” was in order. A new recipe was tried called Ground Beef, Black Bean and Jalapeno Chili. The recipe called for browning the meat and then draining in a colander. Then cook first in a pot the diced onions, carrots and celery. Then add tomatoes, beans the browned beef, jalapeno, chili powder, garlic powder cumin bay leaves and salt/pepper. Then let it simmer for three hours on the stove stirring frequently. This recipe was a sure winner and was the perfect food for this cool evening! Accompanied by corn bread and a fresh garden a salad.
Thinking that the gritty and strong taste and tannins of the Carménère would be perfect with cutting both the meat and tomatoes, which it was but it was not able to compete with the jalapeños, cumin and chili powder! While the wine was extremely excellent and the food scrumptious, we enjoyed the wine after the meal to fully appreciate all the nuances.
Sláinte,
Michael
2022 Cuda Ridge Wines Carménère With BBQ’ed Tri Tip Steak
Photo ©Michael Kelly
History of Carménère
The history of the Carménère varietal is as fascinating as it is happenstance! It was once one of the grapes in the Médoc region of Bordeaux, one of the original historical seven grapes of Bordeaux. It originally served a similar purpose as Petit Verdot, producing a deep red ink on wines. Carménère originates from the French word for crimson (carmin) which refers to the crimson color of the autumn foliage.
Photo from Wikipedia
When the Phylloxera plague hit in 1867 destroying most of the vineyards in Europe, many thought the Carménère grape was extinct. It wasn’t until 150 years later that it was discovered that Chile had preserved the Carménère grape thinking it was Merlot (from clippings planted from France). DNA confirmed that it was the missing 6th varietal of Bordeaux.
Carménère Today
Carménère grows mainly in Chile, specifically the Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley and in the Maipo Province. It is also grown in the Veneto region of Italy, and recently several wineries in Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, Napa and Calaveras are producing it, albeit in small quantities. The 2023 USDA Statistical Service showed only 78 acres planted of the 284,341 in the state of California or .00027%. Oregon and Washington also have some root stock growing in Carménère, but their summary of red wine grapes planted does not even breakout Carménère!
Uniqueness of Carménère
As a varietal, it has the deep ruby coloring and aromas of red fruits. Tannins are softer and milder than Cabernet Sauvignon, thus its use in blending to soften a strong Cabernet. The use is similar to Merlot in formulating an enjoyable blend. Chile produces a 100% Carménère which has a cherry and fruity flavor with traces of smoke and earthy notes combined with inky coloration.
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This is one of my favorite pictures of Larry at a recent tasting this year. Lots of captions can be used to describe this picture. For this story, I will forego the story about the big fish that got away and state Larry was describing the spectrum and enormity of flavors in his Carménère!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
There is a lot to be said about Cuda Ridge Wines in Livermore, California with Larry Dino as the winemaker and his wife Margie as chief wine taster. They produce Bordeaux style wines. The Cuda Ridge Wines tasting room is located at 2400 Arroyo Road in Livermore, California. The picture above and below are just a portion of the tasting room and they have a large outdoor seating area. Cuda Ridge Wines current production is approximately 2100 cases. They produce the following Bordeaux varietals: Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and most recently their addition of Carménère. Always experimenting, Larry Dino also has produced non-Bordeaux style wines which are designated under their Black label, these wines include Sangiovese, New-World style Cabernet Sauvignon and others. Each varietal produced are small lots ranging from 100 – 450 cases. Cuda Ridge does extensive blending of the varietals and strives for lower alcohol wines with intense complexity and character, traditional of the Bordeaux style wines.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2022 Cuda Ridge Insel Vineyard Carménère wine lived up to and exceeded all the key characteristics of Carménère. The Insel Vineyard is located in Pleasanton still within the Livermore AVA. Only 49 cases were produced and since being released in September 2024, the wine has not been submitted for ratings or competitions. Previous vintages have received high scores from Wine Enthusiast. Barrel treatment was 50% new French oak and 50% once used French oak and aged for 19 months. The wine sells for $50/bottle.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
On the eyes, a medium-heavy viscosity wine with a unique inviting deep color combination of maroon and ruby red. On the nose, fresh Bing cherries greeted the senses with a hint of green pepper. The palate is where the wine exceeded prior expectations. Bright cherry taste was intense and concentrated. Plums and dark fruits then came forth with a hint of soft and wet earthen tones (minerality and forest floor) with black tea in the background. On the finish tannins were noted as being “rounded and soft” yet with enough to be mildly grippy. The finish was long lasting with mocha and pepper finishing off the enjoyment with a tinge of vanilla. The wine immediately made my annual “Best Wines” tasted in 2024 which is published in December.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Paired this evening with a 24-hour marinated prime tri tip steak in Chaka sauce. Seared at 1500 degrees and served medium rare. Accompanied by an oil rubbed Russet baked potato with sea salt and sauteed asparagus and button mushrooms. The wine possessed enough tannins to work with the meat and the refreshing fruit of the Carmenere provided a smoothness to the seared steak. A wonderful food and wine pairing.
Sláinte,
Michael
Two Carménère Wines: Cuda Ridge Livermore Valley and Spangler Vineyards Oregon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
History of Carménère
The history of the Carménère varietal is as fascinating as it is happenstance! It was once one of the grapes in the Médoc region of Bordeaux, one of the original historical seven grapes of Bordeaux. It originally served a similar purpose as Petit Verdot, producing a deep red ink on wines. Carménère originates from the French word for crimson (carmin) which refers to the crimson color of the autumn foliage.
When the Phylloxera plague hit in 1867 destroying most of the vineyards in Europe, many thought the Carménère grape was extinct. It wasn’t until 150 years later that it was discovered that Chile had preserved the Carménère grape thinking it was Merlot (from clippings planted from France). DNA confirmed that it was the missing 6th varietal of Bordeaux.
Carménère Today
Carménère grows mainly in Chile, specifically the Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley and in the Maipo Province. It is also grown in the Veneto region of Italy, and recently several wineries in Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, Napa and Calaveras are producing it, albeit in small quantities. The 2023 USDA Statistical Service showed only 78 acres planted of the 284,341 in the state of California or .00027%. Oregon and Washington also have some root stock growing inCarménère, but their summary of red wine grapes planted does not even breakout Carménère!
Uniqueness of Carménère
As a varietal, it has the deep ruby coloring and aromas of red fruits. Tannins are softer and milder than Cabernet Sauvignon, thus its use in blending to soften a strong Cabernet. The use is like the use of Merlot in formulating an enjoyable blend. Chile produces a 100% Carménère which has a cherry and fruity flavor but has traces of smoke and earthy notes with the inky coloration
The Background for this story
With its limited quantities being produced I am always interested in finding this wine to taste and how it is produced. Larry Dino, the owner and winemaker of Cuda Ridges Wines in Livermore produces two Carménère wines. Pat Spangler in Oregon produces one Carménère wine. Both wineries offer different vintages of each. So last night decided to compare and contrast the two.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Had both wines side by side last evening with a 24-hour tenderized and marinated flank steak. It was seared on the BBQ at 1500 degrees. The marinade included fresh cilantro leaves, olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, several minced jalapeno with seeds, ground cumin, black pepper and kosher salt. It was served with fresh lime wedges squeezed onto the meat. Accompanied by roasted Brussel sprouts, mashed potatoes with blue cheese and garlic French bread.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Cuda Ridge Wines 2022 Carménère is from the Casa de Vinas vineyard. This wine lived up to and exceeded most of the key characteristics of Carménère. On the eyes, a medium-heavy viscosity wine with a unique inviting deep purple coloration. On the nose, ripe Bing cherries greeted the senses along with violet fragrance. The palate is where this wine excelled. First the bright cherry taste was intense and concentrated. Plums and dark fruits then came forth with a hint of soft dry and with a tinge of earthen tones (minerality and forest floor) with black tea in the background. The earthen notes are generally found in Chilean Carménère but not found too often in California. The finish was long lasting with mocha and pepper finishing off the enjoyment with vanilla and soft tannins making it a round and enjoyable wine. It is 100% Carménère grapes and comes in at 13.5% alcohol. It was released in September and sells for $50/bottle. Only 49 cases were produced. Barrel treatment was 19 months in 50% new French oak and 50% in once used American oak. It has not been submitted yet into competitions.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Spangler Vineyards was a 2020 Carménère from southern Oregon vineyard called Crater View. The color was again a dark and enticing coloration. On the nose, aromas of cherry and mocha dominate. On the palate, this was a strong and bold Carménère more reminiscent of a Chilean Carménère. On the palate, this was gritty and bold demanding your attention to its pedigree. Key was a “wet forest floor” quality that was tantalizing and delicious. Red plum and green peppercorns, while different flavors, danced in rhythm in the mouth. At the conclusion a chewy and hearty wine, with leather and the concentrated fruits of plum and cherries provided a long finish. The tannins were structured and present and spicy. The wine sells for $39/bottle and comes in at 14.4% alcohol. Only 142 cases were produced. Barrel treatment was 18 months in 1/3 new, 1/3 one year old and 1/3 two-year-old. The barrels were 50% American and 50% French. This wine has won 95 points & Double Gold from Oregon Wine Award competition and 93 points from Cascadia International.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
While trying simply to comprehend each on its own merits and uniqueness, both were truly appreciated at dinner with the meat. After dinner both were also enjoyed alone themselves. Cuda Ridge Carménère was a tad softer and milder with less tannins. Spangler Vineyards possessed less vanilla (in a conversation with Pat) and spicier with red roasted peppers and peppers and black ground pepper purposely and more like a Chilean Carménère. Cuda Ridge was more aromatic with violets wafting into the senses. The coloring was almost identical with Spangler having just a slightly lighter crimson ring in the glass.
Discerning wine aficionados will be happily content with both Carménère wines!
I know I definitely was enthralled by both, and they will make my annual Best Wines of the Year that were tasted in 2024. That list is reserved for 1-2% of the 1600 to 1800 wines tasted during the year.
Sláinte,
Michael
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
Ten Award Winning Wines Worthy of Your Consideration
At the end of each month, I list wines which I tasted, drank or brought to a dinner party but unfortunately ran out of time to write up a story on them. These are the wines enjoyed in October and were very much appreciated by me or others that enjoyed them. They all happen to be red wines from various AVA’s around California and even one from Mendoza, Argentina. AVA’s include Napa Valley, Livermore Valley, Sonoma Valley and Arroyo Seco in Monterey.
Each winery has won many, many awards for each of their wines from various wine competitions. I know you will appreciate and enjoy them.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Many of these wines have been previously written up and reviews can be found by searching on https://californiawinesandwineries.com . Best to view on a laptop computer where on the right side of the home page is a “search” tab. Just put the name of the winery, varietal and the story/stories will appear.
And now on to November wines!
Sláinte,
Michael
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
https://thirty-sevenwines.com/
https://www.CudaRidgeWines.com
https://woodfamilyvineyards.com/