Happy International Grenache Day!
History & Origin
The Grenache Noir grape was thought to arrive in Spain in the Middle Ages by the Kingdom of Aragon. Over time this grape variety became popular in France in regions such as Rhone and Southern France. Now, this grape is grown all over the world.
Characteristics
Grenache Noir is thought of being one of the most versatile grape varieties, allowing the wines to pair with a large variety of meals, although spiced or herby food pair perfectly. This grape carries fresh acidity and the many levels of depth and texture in the wines it produces. Grenache Noir carries aromas of black cherry and liquorice with flavours such as cherry and currants. The Grenache wines normally hold medium acidity and medium tannins.
Wine Making
Grenache Noir is often blended with Syrah in French wines, particularly in the Rhone Valley. Syrah has traditionally been grown in the north of Rhone, with the Grenache grape grown in the south. Through Rhone wines blending the two, the perfect match and compromise is thought to be reached for the entire region.
The Grenache vines are hard to perfect and often require a lot of work, which can be balanced perfectly with the addition of the Syrah grape, by balancing the acidity and flavours of the wine.
In Chateauneuf-du-Pape the grape blend is typically 80% Grenache, making this this area the top producers of this grape.