Vino Spotlight: Grenache
Spicy, evocative, & sophisticated. The Wild Ferment Grenache is one of our most popular red wine varietals. To celebrate International Grenache Day, we thought we'd delve a little deeper into this enchanting varietal.
Viniculture
On a global scale, when it comes to prevalence and importance, Grenache is almost on par with Cabernet Sauvignon, the world's most widely-planted grape. It ripens late, and thrives in hot, dry conditions, such as those found in its native Spain.
Due to its long-ripening process, Grenache is often one of the last grapes to be harvested. This allows the natural sugars to reach a higher level, which in turn means that the grapes are capable of substantial alcohol levels during fermentation. In spite of this, Grenache has a deceptively light colour, and can often be semi-translucent. The result of this is a medium-bodied wine that lacks tannin, but packs a spicy punch. Due to this lack of tannin, Garnacha is often blended with other varieties, such as Shiraz, Tempranillo, and Cinsaut. In Australia, Grenache is typically blended with Mouvedre and Shriaz, making up what is commonly referred to as a 'GSM'.
History
Most wine lovers know Grenache — a versatile grape celebrated in France, Australia, and beyond. But did you know that its story begins in Spain, where it’s known as Garnacha? Thought to have originated in Aragón in the north, Garnacha spread through Catalonia, Sardinia, and southern France, where it became a cornerstone of many classic blends.
Grenache was actually one of the first-ever varietals to be grown in Australia. Introduced in the 18th century, it would become the country's most widely-planted red grape variety, until it was eventually surpassed by Shiraz (or Syrah) in the mid 1960s. The main component in the sweet, fortified wines that were the lynchpin of early Australian winemaking, Grenache holds a very important place in our history. Though initially utilised as a workhorse-red variety in fortified wines and basic blends, Grenache is increasingly becoming a single-varietal superstar.
Tasting Notes
Once one of the most widely grown varieties in Australia, Grenache is now enjoying a renewed popularity. Our 2023 Wild Ferment Grenache was made using fruit grown in the Granite Belt region of Queensland, and fermented with minimal intervention techniques. Natural yeasts produce an infinite variety of interesting textures and flavour compounds. As we like to say here, wild fermentation creates ‘wines with character’. Accordingly, you’ll find that our Wild Ferment Grenache exhibits a complex and diverse flavour palette.
Spicy, Evocative, & Sophisticated. Don't let the fruity exterior of this red fool you, beneath it lies a spicy kick and a smooth, rounded palate.