Grenache is one of the most planted varieties in the world. It was once Australia`s most widely planted red grape but much of it was pulled up in the 70s and early 80s. With the discovery of some of the original old vines, first planted over 150 years ago, growers have now realised the potential of this variety. Exceptional wines, renowned for their power are grown in McLaren Vale and the Barossa Valley from dry-farmed, bush-pruned, old Grenache vines. In Australia, as well as other parts of the world it is used to make beautiful Rose. 

In the Southern Rhône it is a major component of red blends, including Châteauneuf du Pape. These blends have been popularised in Australia with the Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre (GSM), particularly well known.

It is grown extensively in Spain where it is known as Garnacha. In Rioja it is blended with Tempranillo to produce the regions famous wines. The outstanding wines of Priorat in Catalonia, come from Garnacha old bush vines, blended with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Grenache is a vigorous variety that needs to have yields kept in check to concentrate flavours. Grenache has a core fruit profile including berry fruit such as raspberries, strawberries that can have a slight confectionery aroma. Better quality producers of Grenache bring out intense notes of black currants, black cherries, black olives, coffee, leather, black pepper, tar, spices and roasted nuts.