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Your Guide to the Basics of Grenache Wine

From being used as a ceremonial drink by Ancient Egyptians during 3100 BC because of its blood-like feature up to the civilization of Greece wherein it is seen as a privilege liquor for the member of the upper class, wines played significant roles in the history and development of cultures of different countries across the globe.

It has come a long way up to today’s time— the 21st century. Wines these days are made available for everyone. There are now affordable wines to cater to those who want to enjoy the wine’s luxury taste without having to drill a hole in one’s pocket.

On the other hand, prized wines, which are the epitome of luxury and affluence, are being produced too. One can still taste the distinction of their varying value and quality.

Take, for instance, Grenache. It’s one of the best-tasting wines that will surely satisfy the palate of many wine aficionados and enthusiasts. To know more about this wine, take a read!

Where is Grenache’s Vineyard?

Grenache is also known by its Spanish name Garnacha. It can be found almost anywhere in the world since it is one of the most cultivated red grape varieties in the world.

This exquisite variety is grown extensively and primarily in France, Australia, the United States, and Spain. And due to its versatility in both vineyard and winery, it became one of the most globally distributed grapes. Thus, wine production for this label is also on a large scale.

Characteristics of Grenache

This wine variety is well-known for its berry flavors, those of which can be likened to the taste of raspberries, strawberries, and black cherries.

In addition to the said tastes, Grenache also has the notes of white pepper, cinnamon, anise, citrus rind, and tobacco, which makes up its overall character.

Moreover, Grenache is usually processed through medium oak aging wherein its tannin and acidity are at medium level.

What Does this Wine Taste Like?

If you are wondering about how does Grenache tastes like, then here it goes. This wine tastes like a candied fruit roll-up sprinkled with cinnamon. The mentioned taste has always been the impression of expert blind tasters.

Don’t be deceived with its light color and semi-translucency. Most of the time, light-colored wines are perceived as light-bodied wines. However, in Grenache’s case, it has a medium-bodied taste since it contains around 13.5-16 percent alcohol.

Additionally, Grenache often has its subtle aromas of ruby-red grapefruits and orange rinds. But, that is technically dependent on where it is grown. Thus, you should be aware of the said subtle notes and aromas to know about the wine better.

Three Different Tastes of Grenache

Since this wine is highly grown in different countries and regions, it has now its trademark when it comes to tastes. Each of its taste variety has created an impact on wine experts and wine-loving individuals. Thus, here are the three different flavors of Grenache:

Spanish Garnacha. This type is from Spain’s vineyard in the region of Calatayud, wherein the climate is of a warm environment. The growing region in Northern Spain makes the Garnacha grapes late in ripening, which accounts for the wine’s high sugar level.

Further, this wine variety has an alcohol level above 15 percent, which adds to the body and spiciness of the wine’s characteristics. Also, the Garnacha from this area often depicts the smell of a ruby-red grapefruit with licorice and cherry flavor.

French Grenache. This type of wine is grown and produced at France’s Southern Rhone, which is highly known for its Grenache-based wines. This region’s Grenache wines have characteristics of cherry fruit with smoky, herbal notes that include lavender, tobacco, and oregano.

Additionally, unlike the Spanish Garnacha, Rhone’s Grenache has a slightly cooler climate. Thus the wines are finer and have less alcohol percentage.

US Grenache. The American Grenache is one of the three varieties of Grenache varieties whose taste exudes both fruity and aromatic with a subtle hint of crisp acidity. Now, instead of the Old World Grenache, which is more on herbal aromas, the American Grenache’s version is heavy on flowers and licorice.

Takeaway

Wines of the past were only exclusive for elites or those who belong in the upper class since wines back then are technically the symbol of power and luxury. However, as the world progresses, the availability of these liquors for everyone opened up too. Now, anyone can indulge in this well-loved vino.

With this said, the wine enthusiast community is growing at a large scale. Now, if you are one of them, then you’d better start learning the basics of certain wines, grape variety, and vineyard.

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