Grapes · Red grape
Grenache / Garnacha
A warm-climate grape that ripens to high sugar levels. It gives juicy, spicy red-fruited wines and is the backbone of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and many Spanish and Australian blends (GSM).
Also known as: Garnacha (Spain), Cannonau (Sardinia)
On the nose
Young wines (primary aromas)
- strawberry
- raspberry
- red cherry
- candied fruit
- white pepper
- garrigue (dried herbs)
Oak & winemaking (secondary)
- vanilla
- cinnamon
With bottle age (tertiary)
- dried fruit
- leather
- tar
- toffee
On the palate
Dry, medium to full body, often high alcohol, low to medium acidity and soft, medium tannins. Ripe red fruit with a warm, spicy finish.
Tasting tip
Strawberry jam, warming alcohol and a hint of dried Mediterranean herbs often mean Grenache.
Often confused with
Pinot Noir (lighter, higher acidity), Zinfandel (jammier, darker), Syrah (darker, more pepper).