Grenache

Red grape · Juicy, high-alcohol red, the base of southern Rhône blends.

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In short

Medium tannin and high alcohol, with ripe strawberry and red fruit and a warm, spicy note. It is often blended rather than bottled alone.

Where it grows

The Southern Rhône, especially Châteauneuf-du-Pape, plus Spain as Garnacha (Priorat, Rioja) and Australia.

Food pairing

Grilled meats, stews, and Mediterranean dishes.

Why it matters for WSET

A key blending grape in the Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre style. It is called Garnacha in Spain.

Practise your grape knowledge

Grape varieties are core WSET material. Try free practice questions with explanations, then get the full bank and a wrong-answer notebook in the Eclavin app.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Grenache the same as Garnacha?

Yes. Garnacha is simply the Spanish name for Grenache.

Why is Grenache often blended?

Its ripe fruit and high alcohol balance well with the colour and structure of Syrah and Mourvèdre.