Grenache/Garnacha

Question 1

Where is Garnacha the most widely planted grape ?

Answer 1

Spain, from where it originates. It is the main grape of Navarra, and important in Rioja, particularly in Rioja Baja. and played an instrumental role in Priorat’s rise to fame.
(Where it produces very concentrated powerful wines)

Question 2

Where in France is it grown ?

Answer 2

Southern Rhone and The Midi (Southern France).

Question 3

Grenache is also found in what other countries ?

Answer 3

California (USA)

South Australia, particularly McLaren Vale (AUS)

Question 4

It is also responsible for two other noted things which are ?

Answer 4

Many of the worlds greatest Rose’s and is a vital constituent of many great blends including Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Question 5

Does Grenache benefit from oak ageing ?

Answer 5

Yes

Question 6

The sweet, thin skinned grapes give wines that are ?

Answer 6

High in Alcohol and are full bodied with soft tannins.

Question 7

Unless made from low-yielding old vines the wines can be ?

Answer 7

The wines can be quite pale in colour and tend to oxidise easily: even young wines can show a distinct browning at the rim

Question 8

Class Grenache has flavours such as ?

Answer 8

Strawberry and Raspberry and hints of white pepper which develop into flavours of leather, tar and toffee as the wine ages.

Question 9

What Climate does it need ?

Answer 9

Grenache needs hot conditions to ripen fully but is very drought tolerant.