Cinsault
Cinsault is a grape variety first recorded in France under a different name in 1600. The name Cinsault emerged later, with the first recorded use dating from 1888. Its exact origins remain uncertain, although it is undoubtedly from southern France, possibly Languedoc-Roussillon or Provence. Today, it is also widely planted in the Rhône Valley. Its ability to produce high yields soon saw Cinsault used to make wines of modest quality, notably in Algeria and later in South Africa. There, it was crossed with Pinot Noir to produce Pinotage, which is now widely planted. Like Grenache, Cinsault is highly resistant to drought, which explains why it is most commonly found in arid regions. Cinsault is known for producing supple, lightly tannic wines with attractive fruit character. It therefore features in some outstanding red blends, including wines from Domaine de Terrebrune, La Terrasse d’Elise and Château de Beaucastel.
