Frequent readers of the Brief know that we are very fond of Grenache. It is one of the world’s most widely planted grapes but it is very much a grape that works behind the scenes. The name is rarely seen on the labels and is used mainly in blends with other grapes. It often works in the shadow of its fellow southern grape Syrah. But more and more people are discovering the superb qualities of Grenache. The warm, spicy character that the grape gives to the wine without making it too heavy. Grenache wines are often elegant.
The grape has its very own Grenache day, on September 16. It also has its own website, grenache-association.com where you can find information about the grape and read about skilled Grenache producers. Some of our favourite Grenache wines come from the southern Rhone valley and from Priorat in northern Spain. A few suggestions:
- Vacqueyras Garrigues, Domaine Montirius, ~15 euro
- Gigondas Domaine du Pesquier, ~12 euro
- Rasteau Domaine de Verquière, ~12 euro
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine Giraud Tradition, ~25 euro
- Finca el Puig, Priorat, ~18 euro
- Mas Igneus, FA206, Priorat, ~ 15 euro
