Muscardin

Muscardin is a French grape variety that is primarily used in very small amounts in the production of southern Rhône reds. In the Rhone Valley it is used as a blending grape in wines that are made from more well-known varieties such as Grenache and Syrah.

Muscardin grapes are small and dark-skinned, producing wines with light purple and ruby red hues. Varietal wines are relatively light in colour, high in acidity and sometimes slightly floral.

Muscardin is grown primarily in the Rhone Valley in France, where it is used as a blending grape to add freshness and spice. Muscardin is a fairly hardy grape variety that is well-suited to warm climates and can withstand some drought conditions. It is usually planted on stony soils, which helps to give the wines a mineral character. In the winery, it is often macerated for long periods of time to extract more color and tannins from the grapes. Muscardin is most commonly found in the southern Rhone Valley, where it is used to add freshness to Grenache and Syrah-based wines. Varietal wines are usually fresh and ment to be consumed when young. Muscardin wines are best enjoyed with everyday foods, such as pasta or with a BBQ. They pair particularly well with spicy curries and sauces based on tomatoes.

Muscardin is primarily known for being one of the thirteen grape varieties permitted in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation.