Get grenache for a splash of panache!

GRENACHE has a low profile compared with the charismatic pinot noir or the ubiquitous cabernet sauvignon. But it really is a grape with panache – one of the most widely-planted red varieties and responsible for some of the world’s most delicious wines. Good grenache wines are round, fruity and heartwarming with plump red fruit and spice flavours and a sensation of sweetness.

It thrives in hot, dry vineyards, producing wines high in alcohol but low in tannins and acidity, and is usually blended with other varieties. In France, its stronghold is in the south, the Mediterranean heat making itself felt. In the southern Rhône, grenache is the main constituent in Côtes-du-Rhône, Côtes-du-Rhône Villages and cru wines, notably Châteauneuf-du-Pape.These are full-bodied, dark and rich.

In Spain, grenache, known as garnacha, is a major player in Rioja and neighbouring Navarra where it blends well with the more austere tempranillo.

Because grenache wines tend to be low in acidity and high in alcohol, they need rich, bold foods to complement them. Good pairings include pork, lamb or root vegetable stews, game meats like boar or venison and lightly spiced dishes.

Grenache’s pale colour and vibrant fruit flavours make it ideal for rosé. Because it ripens so fully, wines are full of flavour and body with lots of fruit and spice.

Try it with salmon, chicken, duck or barbecued food. Grenache blanc is a white grape related to the red variety. Flavours often include stone fruit, green fruit and spices.