Grenache (Garnacha) is a warm-hearted, high-alcohol grape that gives generous, red-fruited, spicy wines. It is the backbone of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Spanish Priorat, and a star of southern Rhône blends with Syrah and Mourvèdre (GSM). Pale to medium in colour, it offers strawberry, raspberry, white pepper and dried herbs, with soft tannins and a heady, warming finish.
Structure
| Body | Drought-resistant and late-ripening, Grenache thrives in heat and on poor, stony soils, accumulating sugar and alcohol. It oxidises easily, so winemakers handle it gently. Old bush vines in Priorat and Châteauneuf give concentrated, mineral wines; lighter examples make juicy rosé in Provence and Tavel. |
|---|---|
| Acidity | Medium-low, soft and round. |
| Tannin | Low to medium, gentle and warming. |
| Finish | Warm and spicy, with red fruit and garrigue herbs. |
| Aroma | Strawberry, raspberry, white pepper, dried herbs and orange peel. |
Serving: 15–17°C (59–63°F). · Decanting: 30–60 minutes for concentrated old-vine bottlings.
Grenache drinking window
| Tier | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| Everyday (under $20) | Drink within 1–3 years. |
| Premium ($20–60) | Best 3–10 years. |
| Collector (Châteauneuf, Priorat) | 8–25 years. |
| Vintage | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| 2016 | Drinking well now. |
| 2019 | Hold to 2030. |
| 2020 | Cellar to 2032. |
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Grenache — questions answered
What is GSM?
A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre — the classic southern Rhône recipe where Grenache gives fruit and warmth, Syrah structure, and Mourvèdre savoury depth.
Why is Grenache so high in alcohol?
It ripens late in hot climates, accumulating high sugar that ferments into 14.5–16% alcohol in styles like Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Priorat.
Is Garnacha the same as Grenache?
Yes — Garnacha is the Spanish name for the same grape, prized for old bush vines in Priorat, Campo de Borja and Aragón.
What food suits Grenache?
Braised lamb, roast pork and herb-rubbed dishes — its warmth and garrigue spice love Mediterranean cooking.