Grenache
A grape variety that originated in Spain and that thrives on both sides of the Pyrenees (Spain to the west and France to the east) where the Mediterranean climate is ideal for the hot and dry conditions required by its vines. It tends to be light in color, acid and tannins. The alcohol levels, however, are normally high (reaching easily 15% abv). The very common solution is to have it blended with other grape varieties to achieve a more balanced wine and Syrah and Mourvèdre are frequent partners. GSM wines from Australia and Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the Rhône Valley in France are classical examples of how successful these blends can be.
- PRODUCED AS A VARIETAL MAINLY IN:
- Australia
Navarra, Spain
Sardinia, Italy
- PRODUCED AS A BLEND MAINLY IN:
- Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Provence, France
Rhone Valley, France
Rioja, Spain
- MOSTLY BLENDED WITH:
- Syrah/Shiraz
Tempranillo (in Rioja)
- STYLE(S):
- Mild (if not from old vines)
Soft
Fruity
- AROMAS AND FLAVORS:
- Blackberry
Cloves
Dried fruit
Fruity
Boisenberry
Herbs
Cherry
Jammy
Kirsh
Meat
Mineral notes
Olive
Plum
Raspberry
Smoke
Spicy
Strawberry
White pepper
- BODY:
- Medium-Full
- TEXTURE:
- Voluptous
Velvety
- ACIDITY:
- Low
- TANNINS:
- Supple
- OLD WORLD:
- Peppery
- NEW WORLD:
- Fruity
- IF FROM A COOL AREA:
- It is not planted in cool areas
- WHEN YOUNG:
- Vibrant
Spicy
- WHEN IT AGES:
- Tobacco
Leather
Toffee
- REMARKS:
- High in alcohol