Cinsaut (or Cinsault) is a red grape varietal originating and predominantly grown in the south of France, Algeria and Morocco.
Often used as a blending grape and more specifically with Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. Most notably, Cinsault is used in the blending of such renowned French AOCs as Chateauneuf du Pape and Côte du Rhône.
The grape is not often used as a single varietal wine, except as a rosé, in which it expresses itself as a light, aromatic and refreshing wine. It produces wines that are low in tannin and is used in a blend for it's aroma and perfume with it's light red berries.
In the early 1900's Cinsaut was crossed with Pinot Noir to create Pilotage, which has become South Africa's signature grape varietal.
Cineast is a very drought resistant grape but can be susceptible to disease. It appreciates a dry climate.
Dominant Flavours:
- Fruit: Strawberry, Red Cherry
- Terroir: Musk, Meat
- Oak: Vanilla, Sweet Wood, Smoke, Toast
Colour:
- Dark-skinned grape
Food Pairing:
- Snails with garlic butter (rosé)
- Hot smoked salmon fillets (rosé)
- Moroccan lamb with prunes and apricot (red)
- Stews (red)
