Grenache, or Grenache Noir, is one of the most cultivated grape varieties in the world. Appreciated for its ability to adapt to different terroirs, but also for its deliciousness, this black grape variety offers fruity wines, mainly from a blend. Zoom on the characteristics of Grenache Noir .
To find out more about grape varieties, we invite you to read our grape variety guide .
The origins of Grenache
Grenache originates from Spain, and in particular from the province of Aragon, where it is appreciated for producing colorful and dense red wines, and aromatic rosé wines. During the Middle Ages, pilgrims from Santiago de Compostela brought it to France. Since the 15th century, it has been cultivated all around the Mediterranean in several countries, such as Italy, Tunisia, Greece, Morocco, Argentina, California, and even South Africa. Today, the one also called "garnacha tinta", "tinta aragonesa", or even "alicante" is one of the most cultivated grape varieties in the world , behind merlot and cabernet sauvignon.
The particularities of Grenache
In the vineyards, we recognize the grape variety of Spanish origin by its vigorous branches and its upright shape. The large clusters are distinguished by large , round and very juicy grapes , with thick, bluish skin. The rounded leaves, with barely marked lobes, display a pretty light green color.
This productive grape with tight berries offers better wines when produced in low yields. On the other hand, it is particularly sensitive to oxidation, and requires the full attention of the winemaker. This grape variety, which loves the Mediterranean climate, is also not very resistant to gray rot, bacterial necrosis, downy mildew, powdery mildew, etc.
Good to know: when we talk about Grenache, we often talk about Grenache Noir, but there are other, less widespread varieties, such as Grenache Blanc and Grenache Gris , which are used to produce white wines.
Wines made from Grenache
Grenache-based wines can be recognized by their pretty intense red or pink color. In blending, Grenache is then used in many appellations, to produce red wines and rosé wines, but also natural sweet wines.
Wines from the Rhône Valley
Grenache is one of the flagship grape varieties of the Rhône Valley , particularly in major appellations, such as the AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape or the AOC Côtes-du-Rhône. These red fruits make it possible to obtain wines with excellent value for money, with intense aromas of ripe fruit.
Languedoc-Roussillon wines
In Languedoc, Grenache produces powerful red wines , with notes of red fruits and very marked spices. Roussillon is also renowned for producing natural sweet wines made from Grenache. These have aromas of dried fruits, cocoa and coffee.
Wines of Provence
In Provence, Grenache is particularly used to make rosé wine . We then recognize a pretty light pink color, as well as aromas of red and black fruits and spicy notes.
What food and wine pairings for Grenache?
Grenache red wines are generally quite powerful, their alcohol content is high, and this red grape variety offers spicy aromas. They must therefore be accompanied by dishes that will cope with this temperament. We then favor dishes with spicy flavors , particularly southern cuisine and red meats, such as beef, wild boar or lamb.
Grenache rosé wines , for their part, are very popular as an aperitif , or to accompany grilled meats during a barbecue. Light and fresh, but also very fruity, these wines are also pleasant with cold starters.
Finally, natural sweet wine made from Grenache can be served throughout the meal, from starter to dessert . It is particularly interesting when it accompanies sweet and sour dishes, or a blue cheese.
Our wines made with Grenache
Our estate in Provence offers Grenache the ideal setting to flourish. Our winegrowers then take advantage of this to produce tasty blended wines from Grenache .
- Romance rosé 2022 - IGP Méditerranée : this blended wine, composed of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault and Merlot, reveals great freshness and aromas of apricot and peach which work wonders as an aperitif, or as an accompaniment to 'Provençal cuisine;
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Esprit Méditerranée rosé 2022 - IGP Méditerranée : made from 5 different grape varieties, including Grenache, this pale-colored rosé wine offers notes of summer fruit perfect for an aperitif or a barbecue;
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Grande Récolte rosé 2022 - AOP Côtes de Provence : composed of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, this rosé wine cuvée from Provence offers very pleasant fruity aromas to accompany summer vegetables;
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Great Red Harvest 2018 - AOP Côtes de Provence: to accompany your charcuterie dishes or grilled meats, let yourself be tempted by this red wine with notes of black and spicy fruits.
Grenache is a grape variety widely used in France and around the world. Generous and delicious, it allows you to create quality blended wines. Discover the Grenache wines of the Berne estate , and appreciate the richness of the terroir.
