Grenache is an unlikely hero of a grape. Until recently reviled or at best ignored in much of the world, it’s the grape chiefly responsible for some of the world's most celebrated reds, most notably Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Grenache is the second most widely planted variety in the world and though found in all parts of the world, its home is in Spain and Southern France.
When we speak of Grenache we usually refer to Grenache Noir, the red grape. But there’s actually a lot of Grenache Blanc to be found as well and to a smaller extent also some Grenache Gris.
Grenache is a sturdy and relatively easy variety to grow. It ripens late and thus benefits a lot from the sunshine on Mallorca. It’s generally spicy, berry-flavoured and soft on the palate. It produces wine with relatively high sugar levels, and it needs careful control of yields for best results. Characteristic flavour profile of Grenache include red fruit flavours (raspberry and strawberry) with a subtle, white pepper spice note. Grenache wines are highly prone to oxidation so careful winemaking is key here.