Chapter 18 Grenache/Garnacha Flashcards
What are the main characteristics of Grenache/Garnacha?
G is a black grape variety that needs a warm climate to ripen successfully. Typically G grapes have high levels of sugar and low acidity. It is thin skinned and produces wines with low to medium tannins with red fruit flavours and sometimes spice. G is commonly used to make rose wines using the short maceration method. Wines can range from dry to medium sweetness……intended to be consumed chilled while young and fruity. G is often blended with other black grape varieties such as Syrah in France and Tempranillo in Spain…..these varieties adding colour, acidity and tannins to G based wines. Very good or outstanding wines are often matured in barrels to add flavour complexity. Can develop complex tertiary flavours in the bottle.
France:
Southern Rhône. G is typically blended with other varieties here. Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOCis known for full bodied wines with high alcohol levels, the vineyards having large round stones that absorb heat during the day and radiate back into the vines at night. Very good or outstanding wines can develop complex tertiary flavours in the bottle. South of France, G is the most important variety for both red and rose wines. Minervois AOC is one of the most important appellations, perfect climate for G produces red fruit flavours and body with other grape varieties including Syrah.
Spain:
G contributes body and fresh red fruit to wines from Rioja DOCa and Navarro DO. The most powerful G based wines can be found in Priorat DOCa in Catalonia…..old vines producing tiny yields of concentrated grapes…..typically blended with other black grape varieties and can be matured for extended periods.
Australia:
Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are home to many old G vines. These vines can produce outstanding wines with concentrated red fruit and spice flavours and long ageing potential. G is also used in blends with Shiraz and other varieties…….similar in style to Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOC.
