October 18, 2004

Grenache

Pronounced [greh-NAHSH]

From the International Wine of the Month Club

Drought and heat resistant, Grenache yields a fruity, spicy, medium-bodied wine with supple tannins. The second most widely planted grape in the world, Grenache is widespread in the southern RhoneValley. It figures strongly in the blend of Chateauneuf-du-Pape (although there are some pure varietals), and it is used on its own for the rose wines of Tavel and Lirac; it is also used in France's sweet Banyuls wine. Grenache is also important in Spain, where it's known as Garnacha Tinta; it is especially noteworthy in Rioja and Priorat. Grenache used to be more popular in Australia, but has now been surpassed by Syrah, although a few Barossa Valley producers are making wines with Grenache similar to Chateauneuf-du-Pape. In California, it's a workhorse-blending grape, although occasionally old vines are found and its grapes are made into a varietal wine, which at its best can be quite good. It may make a comeback as enthusiasts of Rhone style wines seek cooler areas and an excellent blending grape.

From WikiPedia

Grenache is a sweet red grape variety grown primarily for the making of wine. It grows well in hot, dry regions, and is grown in Southern France, Spain, South America, and California's Central Valley. It is usually blended with other varietals, rather than made a stand-alone wine. In France it is found in many Rhône blends, especially Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

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