Everything About Cinsault Grape
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Cinsault Description
Origin: Provence, France
History: Cinsault, also known as Cinsaut, is a red wine grape variety that likely originated in the southern regions of France, particularly between Avignon, Aix, and Marseille. It has been cultivated for centuries and is known for its heat tolerance and productivity, making it important in Languedoc-Roussillon and former French colonies such as Algeria, Lebanon, and Morocco. In South Africa, it was historically known as 'Hermitage' and is one of the parent varieties of Pinotage, a crossing between Pinot Noir and Cinsault.
Appearance: Medium-sized, thin-skinned, dark blue to black berries growing in loose clusters.
Growing Traits: Cinsault is well-suited to hot, sunny climates and is highly resistant to drought, making it ideal for Mediterranean regions. It has a slow ripening period, which makes it suitable for coastal terroirs where temperatures remain high late into the growing season. The vine is susceptible to certain diseases, including wood diseases like esca and eutypiosis, as well as pests such as mites and grape berry moths.
Food Pairing Cinsault's light to medium body, moderate acidity, and red fruit flavors make it a versatile partner for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, Mediterranean cuisine, and dishes featuring herbs and spices. The wine's subtle floral notes complement roasted vegetables and soft cheeses, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Light to medium-bodied with a soft and approachable profile, offering freshness and subtle complexity. Typically dry, with minimal residual sugar, focusing on red fruit and floral flavors. Low to moderate tannin levels, providing gentle structure without being overly astringent. Medium acidity, contributing to balance and freshness, enhancing the wine's food-pairing versatility. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 11% and 13.5%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Red Cherry 
Raspberry 
Strawberry 
Rose 
Spice Cinsault wines are characterized by red fruit flavors such as red cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, complemented by floral notes of rose petal and subtle spice. The low to moderate tannins and medium acidity contribute to a smooth and refreshing finish.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/france.png)
France
•Languedoc-Roussillon
•Provence
•Rhône Valley
![[object Object] Region](/regions/south_africa.png)
South Africa
•Western Cape
![[object Object] Region](/regions/lebanon.png)
Lebanon
•Bekaa Valley
![[object Object] Region](/regions/morocco.png)
Morocco
•Guerrouane
•Beni M'Tir
![[object Object] Region](/regions/australia.png)
Australia
•Barossa Valley
•McLaren Vale
Notable Wines and Producers
Château Musar Red
•Château Musar
Domaine Tempier Bandol Rosé
•Domaine Tempier
Sadie Family 'Pofadder' Cinsault
•Sadie Family Wines
Cinsault FAQ
Provence, France
Cinsault has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Cinsault is Moderate to Light bodied.
Cinsault has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Cinsault is Dry.
Provence, France
Cinsault is grown in France (Languedoc-Roussillon, Provence, Rhône Valley)South Africa (Western Cape)Lebanon (Bekaa Valley)Morocco (Guerrouane, Beni M'Tir)Australia (Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale).
Cinsault wines are characterized by red fruit flavors such as red cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, complemented by floral notes of rose petal and subtle spice. The low to moderate tannins and medium acidity contribute to a smooth and refreshing finish.
Cinsault's light to medium body, moderate acidity, and red fruit flavors make it a versatile partner for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, Mediterranean cuisine, and dishes featuring herbs and spices. The wine's subtle floral notes complement roasted vegetables and soft cheeses, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Cinsault wines are characterized by red fruit flavors such as red cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, complemented by floral notes of rose petal and subtle spice. The low to moderate tannins and medium acidity contribute to a smooth and refreshing finish.