How to Pick a Grenache Wine

Grenache isn't as popular as Cabernet or Merlot. Consequently, you would never guess that it is one of the most widely planted grapes in the wine industry. Trying something new often leads to new discoveries, so give this quiet red wine a chance and fall in love with its dark fruit flavors and low tannins.

Things You'll Need

• Red or white wine glasses

Instructions

1. Know from where Grenache comes. This wine is widely produced in France and Spain, where it is known as Garnacha or Garnacha Tinta.

2. Learn the flavors of Grenache. This wine is generally medium-bodied with flavors that range from dark blackberries to ripe juicy plums, with a little bit of herbs and spices thrown in for good measure.

3. Know when to drink Grenache. Drink this wine when it is young because it does not age well due to the low level of tannins and its propensity to oxidize quickly.

4. Choose by region. The Domaine Gayda L'Archet Grenache from France is a highly regarded wine. The Spanish Granrojo Granacha also has received rave reviews from wine experts around the world.

5. Discover Granache Blanca. The white version of this wine is easy to drink with bright citrus fruit flavors and a crisp, clean finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't worry about food pairing. Grenache is suitable for just about every food dish from barbecue to Chinese.

• Don't think you have to spend a lot to get a good bottle of Grenache. Plan to spend between $15 and $20 a bottle.

• Grenache has a higher alcohol content than most wines, so sip slowly.

• Be sure to serve Grenache at the proper temperature, between 60 and 65 degrees, or the flavors will be overcome by the alcohol content.

Resources

• Get more information about Grenache at Cellarnotes.
• Learn the history of Grenache at Winepros.