Grenache: The Grape Guide
Grape Profiles · Red
Grenache (Garnacha in Spain) is a warm-climate red grape that makes juicy, perfumed, medium-bodied wines tasting of ripe strawberry, raspberry, white pepper and dried herbs, usually with soft tannins and generous alcohol. It's the backbone of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and most southern Rhône reds, the "G" in GSM blends, and the grape behind great rosé from Tavel and Provence.
We stock dozens of Grenache-based wines, from light, chillable reds to age-worthy Rhône classics. Here's what to know.
Grenache worth knowing
What does Grenache taste like?
Red fruit leads: strawberry, raspberry and cherry, often with candied or jammy notes in warm years. Behind the fruit come white pepper, cinnamon, orange peel and garrigue, the wild thyme and lavender scrub of southern France. Grenache has thin skins, so the color is often lighter than you'd expect and tannins are gentle, but it ripens to high sugar, so alcohol of 14 to 15% is common. Older vines and cooler sites give more savory, structured wines.
Where does Grenache grow best?
| Region | Style |
|---|---|
| Southern Rhône (Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Côtes du Rhône) | Blends led by Grenache, with Syrah and Mourvèdre; spicy, powerful, age-worthy |
| Spain (Priorat, Montsant, Campo de Borja, Calatayud, Gredos) | From rich and mineral (Priorat) to fresh, high-altitude Garnacha (Gredos) |
| Sardinia (as Cannonau) | Rustic, herbal, sun-baked |
| Australia (McLaren Vale, Barossa) | Old bush vines; bright, perfumed modern styles |
| California (Santa Barbara, Sierra Foothills, Paso Robles) | Juicy to structured; a favorite of young natural producers |
| Roussillon (Banyuls, Maury) | Fortified sweet reds with chocolate and dried-fruit notes |
For the region behind Grenache's most famous wine, read our Châteauneuf-du-Pape guide and why the Rhône may be the world's most versatile region.
What is a GSM blend?
GSM stands for Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, the classic trio of the southern Rhône. Grenache brings fruit and warmth, Syrah adds color, dark fruit and pepper, and Mourvèdre adds structure and savory, meaty notes. Australia made the "GSM" name popular, and California Rhône producers followed. If you like the Syrah side of the blend, see our guide to Shiraz.
Is Grenache used for rosé?
Yes, it's the most important rosé grape in the world. Its pale color, red-berry fruit and fleshy texture make ideal pink wine. Tavel, in the southern Rhône, is France's only appellation for rosé alone, and Grenache leads the blend. Provence rosé usually includes Grenache with Cinsault and Syrah.
What food goes with Grenache?
Grilled and roasted meats with herbs, lamb, sausages, barbecue, ratatouille and dishes with warm spices such as cumin and paprika. Lighter Grenache is great slightly chilled with tacos and pizza; see our chillable reds guide. Fortified Banyuls is one of the few wines that pairs with chocolate.
Grenache vs. Pinot Noir: how are they different?
Both can look pale and taste of red fruit, which is why they're confused in blind tastings. Grenache is warmer and spicier, with higher alcohol, lower acidity and a sweeter impression; Pinot Noir is cooler, earthier and more acidic. If you love Pinot but want something riper, Grenache from a cool, high site is a natural next step. See our list of alternative grapes to try.
FAQ
What does Grenache wine taste like?
Grenache tastes of ripe strawberry, raspberry and cherry with white pepper, orange peel and dried herbs. It is usually medium-bodied with soft tannins and fairly high alcohol.
Is Grenache the same as Garnacha?
Yes. Garnacha is the Spanish name for Grenache, and in Sardinia it is called Cannonau.
Is Grenache sweet or dry?
Most Grenache is dry. Its ripe fruit can seem sweet, and fortified Grenache wines such as Banyuls are intentionally sweet.
What is Grenache similar to?
Grenache is often compared with Pinot Noir for its pale color and red fruit, but it is warmer, spicier and higher in alcohol.
From Tavel rosé to old-vine Barossa, Grenache is the most versatile red on the shelf. Shop Grenache →
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