Grenache
Although widely planted throughout southern France and Spain, Grenache is not a well-known name among consumers as it most often appears in blends. On its own, it typically produces medium-bodied fleshy, fruity wines with less tannin and color than most Mediterranean varietals, making it a perfect foil for darker, more structured varietals such as Syrah and Tempranillo.
Flavor Descriptors
Food Pairings
France and Spain
Mediterranean-influenced dishes such as Ratatouille, Provencal pizza, or grilled lamb with rosemary. Dishes with roasted tomatoes, garlic, and savory herbs as well as many Middle Eastern dishes.
New World (USA, Australia)
Mildly spiced chicken and pork dishes, pasta salads, and salmon.
Buying, Storing, & Serving
Grenache should be served at room temperature. The more structured styles will benefit from being poured into a decanter and allowed to breathe for up to one hour before serving.Â
Most Grenache from France and Spain is meant to be consumed within two to six years of vintage date. New World Grenache is ready to drink upon release. Â
Buying (and drinking) an older bottle will typically get you a mellower wine with less obvious fruitiness and more pronounced spice box aromas. A younger wine will offer brighter, juicier fruit flavors and a firmer texture.
Store bottles in a cool, dark place. While it is now common for wine makers to use plastic corks or screw-top closures which may be stored vertically or horizontally, those with the traditional corks should be laid on their sides to keep them moist.