Grenache – The Grape Next Door
Grenache is everywhere, but not necessarily widely recognized as it is often enjoyed incognito even though it takes a starring role in many blends. From the savoury and complex Châteauneuf-du-Pape to the seductive, rich GSM from Australia to all that delicate wonderful Rosé from Provence. You guessed it – Grenache. Not to mention the host of styles that Spain offers for Garnacha (Grenache) based wines.
I think Randall Grahm of Bonny Doon in California summed up Grenache in his quote for World Grenache Day one year saying “For me, Grenache has been a bit like the proverbial girl next door. Where it has taken years to figure out how beautiful she is.”
Grenache Varieties
Grenache is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world, its origin heralding back to eastern Spain and areas in the south of France. It ripens relatively late and thrives in the warm Mediterranean sun, so it is often found flourishing in toastier climates such as Spain, the south of France, California, Australia and Sardinia.
Grenache has been often used as a workhorse variety as well as being blended with other grapes to produce some of the world’s top wines that are capable of ageing. The addition of Syrah will add structure and blackberry notes to the mix and Mourvèdre/Monastrell will lends firm tannins and an often-meaty character to the wine.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the southern Rhône is always Grenache dominant with Syrah and Mourvèdre often blended in. For all those easy drinking and affordable, Côtes du Rhône wines from the south of France, the mix usually comprises of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah.
Spain masters Garnacha when it comes to a variety of styles. From juicy, value 100% Garnacha’s from Catalayud and Campo de Borja to the structured, long-lived Priorat wines crafted from old vines. It is also the star blending grape for adding a dash into Tempranillo for the wines of Rioja.
In the new world countries, it thrives in Australia’s warmer zones such as McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley where top GSMs are produced (Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvedre). Producers in California, of the likes of Bonny Doon along with Tablas Creek and Austin Hope to name a few, are part of the Rhone Rangers group. This group of top producers focus on the great potential of Rhone varietals such as Grenache excelling in California. Some very exciting wines are coming out of this venture.
The Taste of Grenache
Grenache produces wines that are rich and soft on the palate with moderate tannins. The wines are typically of higher alcohol which can add some weight and spicy heat to the mix. There is a lush, juiciness to the texture of Grenache based wines. Rich in red berry fruits with an array of spice from white pepper, liquorice to clove they can evolve into wines of great complexity showing leather, stewed fruits and gamey notes as they age.
World Grenache Day occurs on the 3rd Friday of September which brings us to Friday, September 16th this year. Stop by your local JAK’S store to pick up some of these offerings below to celebrate this unsung hero of a grape!
World Grenache Day Options
Borsao Clasico Garnacha (Spain)
Sale $14.98 (Reg. $16.99)
This great value wine really delivers and garnered 89 points at the International Wine Challenge. A dash of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon has been added to the Garnacha which lends supple tannins. Blackberries, tar and red cherries. Robust weight with uplifting acidity provides a perfect balance to the ripe red fruits and touch of floral. Nice hints of peppery spice on the finish.
LVE Rose by John Legend (Languedoc, France)
Sale $31.98 (Reg. $34.99)
This elegant Languedoc Rose is comprised of 45% Grenache, 35% Syrah and 20% Cinsault. Delicate notes of peach blossom, raspberry and apricot on the nose. Dry and round on the palate with vibrant acidity followed through with flavours of fresh strawberry and white nectarine. Perfect aperitif wine or with salads and seafood dishes.
Louis Bernard Châteauneuf-du-Pape
(Southern Rhone, France) – $57.99
Grenache accounts for 60% with Syrah providing the remainder of the blend. Fragrant ripe red fruits with plums and cherries and a floral character. The palate is generous with juicy red fruits, wet earth and a touch of liquorice. Long finish with hints of stewed berry notes. 90 points – Wine Spectator