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mixed
Carignan (kah-rig-nan or kah-rin-yon) is best known as a French variety although it is of Spanish origin, taking its name from the town of Carinena in Aragon. It is a prominent variety in several areas of Spain but has not made much headway in other European countries. The formerly large area of Carignan planting in Algeria has been considerably reduced since 1962. It is still an important red grape variety in California where it is known as Carignane, although the area has declined and currently stands at around 2445 ha. It is grown to a lesser extent in Chile and Argentina. In 2003 there were 51 ha of Carignan growing commercially in Australia. It should not be confused with Bonvedro, which was incorrectly called Carignan in South Australia. The variety is more susceptible to fungal diseases than most other wine grape varieties and needs a higher level of light for full photosynthetic efficiency. In Australia, therefore, it should do best in the inland irrigation areas.
