How to Grow Carignane

Carignane grapevines prefer a hot, dry climate.

The name Carignane might not be familiar, but if you have enjoyed common table wines, chances are Carignane grapes have been included along with other varietals. In the wine country of France, it is the most common type of grapevine. Carignane wine is red and appears nearly black or dark violet. Its alcohol content is high and its taste can resemble a peppery Syrah. It grows well in the region surrounding the Mediterranean Sea and will perform well in similar climates, such as parts of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Things You'll Need

• Soil test kit
• Plant stakes
• Nursery tape or cloth strips
• Fertilizer
• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Grow Carignane grapes in full sun where the soil is deep, rich and well-drained. The soil needs to slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.0 and 5.5. Carignane vines can perform well in hot, dry climates.

2. Plant Carignane grapevines in spring, leaving 6 feet between vines. Water after planting by flooding the area for 30 minutes. Water the vines once a week during summer if no rain occurs during the first year. Reduce the amount of water after the vines become established after their first year in the ground.

3. Pound one or two sturdy plant stakes into the ground on opposite sides of each vine, 4 to 6 inches away from the base of the vine. Tie canes to the stake when they grow to about 12 inches long. Use nursery tape or cloth strips rather than wire to prevent damage to the succulent new growth.

4. Fertilize Carignane grapevines once in spring, using animal manure, organic compost spread as a mulch or commercial fertilizer having an N-P-K ratio of 10-20-20. Follow the fertilizer's label directions for application details.

5. Prune vines during their winter dormant season. It's OK to prune them severely because grapes will form on new growth the next summer.

Tips & Warnings

• The Carignane grape ripens later in the season than other grapes, often producing a second crop up to one month after the first harvest.

• Do not over-water Carignane grapevines. In some areas, such as Chile, they are grown in very hot, dry conditions and irrigation is minimal.

References

• Pinot Grigio: Carignane Wine
• University of California UC Integrated Viticulture: Viticultural Information
• Palate Press: Champions of Carignan
• Iowa State University: Grape Growing 101
• Oregon State University Extension: Growing Grapes in Your Home Garden

Resources

• Oregon State University: Prune Your Grape Vines Heavily in Winter