Grenache
Grenache / Garnacha
1. The Grape
Grenache (called Garnacha in Spain and Cannonau in Sardinia) is a black grape that loves warm, sunny places.
It ripens late and needs a long, dry growing season, which is why it thrives around the Mediterranean.
The grape has thin skins and makes soft, ripe red wines that are full of strawberry, raspberry, and spicy flavours.
It’s also used to make rosé wines, especially in southern France and northern Spain.
2. Where It’s Grown
Grenache is one of the world’s most widely planted black grapes.
It is found mainly in southern France, Spain, Australia, Sardinia (Italy), South Africa, and California.
| Region | Climate | Typical Style |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Rhône (France) | Hot and dry | Ripe, spicy red wines with soft tannins and herbs |
| Spain (Garnacha) | Warm and sunny | Full-bodied reds with red fruit and spice; also bright rosés |
| Provence (France) | Warm Mediterranean | Pale, dry rosé with delicate fruit |
| Australia | Warm, dry | Juicy, red-fruited reds and GSM blends (Grenache–Syrah–Mourvèdre) |
| Sardinia (Italy) | Hot | Rich, high-alcohol reds with earthy spice |
| South Africa & California | Sunny, dry | Medium-bodied, fruity reds with a hint of pepper |
3. Taste and Style
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Colour | Medium to pale ruby red |
| Flavours | Strawberry, raspberry, white pepper, herbs, and spice |
| Body | Medium to full |
| Tannins | Soft and smooth |
| Acidity | Low to medium |
| Alcohol | Often high, giving a warm finish |
Typical Styles:
- Southern Rhône: rich, spicy blends like Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
- Spain (Garnacha): bold, ripe reds and fruity rosés.
- Australia: bright, juicy, red-fruited wines with soft tannins.
- Provence: pale, refreshing rosé.
4. Winemaking and Blending
- Winemakers often use large old oak barrels to soften Grenache without adding strong oak flavours.
- In southern France and Australia, Grenache is often blended with Syrah and Mourvèdre in the famous GSM blend.
- In Spain, it’s mixed with Tempranillo to add fruit and warmth.
- Because the grape can oxidise easily, careful handling is needed to keep the wines fresh.
5. Summary
Grenache makes smooth, generous red wines full of warmth and ripe fruit.
It thrives in sunny, Mediterranean climates and is just as important for red blends as it is for rosé.
From the spicy wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to the rich reds of Spain and Australia, Grenache is loved for its soft texture, fruity charm, and easy appeal.
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