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Grape · Red

Grenache

Also known as Garnacha in Spain, Cannonau in Sardinia or Grenache Noir in full name

Warm climate

About

Thin-skinned grape with naturally high sugar. Often blended (especially with Syrah and Mourvèdre). Also made as rosé. Key variety in southern Rhône and Rioja.

Typical profile

Body
Moderate
Tannins
Smooth
Acidity
Mellow
Sweetness
Dry

Aromas

What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.

Young · fresh from the glass

Aged · develops with bottle time

Explore aromas

Oak influence

Possible

Growing regions

How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.

Spain

Food pairings

Braised lamb shanks with herbes de ProvenceGrilled Mediterranean sea bass with ratatouilleRoasted pork shoulder with fennel and orangeDuck confit with white bean cassouletBeef bourguignon with pearl onions and mushroomsPaella Valenciana with saffron and chorizo

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Garnacha taste like?▼
Young Garnacha offers bright flavors of strawberry, plum, and red cherry with hints of white pepper. As it ages, it develops more complex notes of dried fruit, caramel, earth, and savory meat-like characteristics.
Where does Garnacha grow best?▼
Garnacha thrives in warm climates and is particularly successful in Spain's Rioja region and France's southern Rhône Valley. The grape's thin skin and high sugar content make it well-suited to hot, dry Mediterranean conditions.
What food pairs with Garnacha?▼
Garnacha pairs beautifully with grilled meats, Spanish tapas, and Mediterranean cuisine thanks to its fruit-forward character and spicy notes. The wine's versatility also makes it excellent with roasted vegetables and aged cheeses.
How does Garnacha age?▼
Garnacha ages gracefully, transitioning from fresh fruit flavors to more complex dried fruit, caramel, and earthy notes over time. The grape's naturally high sugar content provides good structure for medium to long-term aging potential.
Is Garnacha similar to other similar grapes?▼
Garnacha is actually the Spanish name for Grenache, so they're the same grape variety. It's commonly blended with Syrah and Mourvèdre in traditional Rhône-style blends, where each grape contributes complementary characteristics.