Grenache

Grenache is a widely planted red wine grape variety, known in Spain as Garnacha and in Sardinia as Cannonau. It also exists in a white-skinned form as Grenache Blanc. The grape is valued for versatility, producing wines that range from light and fruity to rich and high in alcohol, and it is often used in blends as well as as a varietal wine.

Origins and distribution: Grenache is believed to have originated in Spain. It is a cornerstone of the Southern Rhône and other parts of southern France, and it is widely grown in Spain, Sardinia, other parts of Italy, Australia, and California. Climate exerts a strong influence on style, with hotter sites tending toward higher alcohol, riper fruit, and more tannin.

Viticulture and characteristics: Grenache vines are late-ripening with thin skins, somewhat drought-tolerant but susceptible to sunburn in very hot locations. Red Grenache typically yields wines with red fruit flavors such as strawberry and raspberry, complemented by spice and herbal notes, and usually with softer tannins than many other reds. Alcohol levels can be relatively high. Grenache Blanc tends to produce aromatic white wines with citrus, stone fruit, and floral notes.

Winemaking and notable regions: In the Rhône Valley, Grenache is a key component of many red wines and is central to GSM blends (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre); it can also dominate in certain bottlings such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape blends. In Spain, Garnacha is fundamental in wines from Priorat and Montsant and is widely used for rosé. Globally, Grenache is grown for varietal wines as well as blends, with significant production in Australia and California, where warm climates support rich, fruit-driven styles.