When wine enthusiasts mention Grenache, the first thing that often comes to mind is the legendary Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Yet, it’s important to note that Grenache doesn’t actually hail from the Rhône or even France. Originating in Spain, it made its way to Roussillon after traversing the Pyrenees and has since established itself as a dominant force alongside its relative, Lledoner Pelut.
In Spain, this grape is known as Garnacha or Garnatxa and is believed to have emerged in the heart of Aragon, gaining prominence in the wine industry during the 15th century—coinciding with Aragonese kings’ ambitions for expansion. Today, Grenache can be found all over the globe! It stands as the predominant red grape variety in Spain and France ranks among its largest producers. Additionally, it appears in Italy (where it’s referred to as Cannonau), Mexico, and the United States… What do all these regions share? Abundant sunshine. Grenache flourishes in warm climates, tolerates drought conditions well, and thrives on dry soils—making it a grape variety well-suited for a future impacted by climate change!
Grenache in Roussillon
In Roussillon specifically, Grenache Noir showcases an impressive expression of terroir. This grape is permitted across all appellations and contributes not only to red wines but also rosés and notably natural sweet wines! A prime example would be Banyuls—a prestigious appellation known for its fortified wines primarily crafted from Grenache Noir alongside Blanc or Gris varieties. The aromatic range of Grenache Noir is vast: one might detect flavors of blackcurrant and blackberry along with hints of spice, garrigue herbs, smokiness, or even caramel notes developed through aging. On the palate, it typically presents a powerful yet velvety profile with mild acidity and soft tannins that feel smooth on the tongue. It can also exhibit finesse reminiscent of Pinot Noir with aromas like wild strawberries and morello cherries.
Hairy Grenache
An intriguing variant worth noting is what’s known as hairy Grenache—a unique genetic mutation resulting in variations of color within this grape family! Known as lledoner pelut in France and mostly found within Roussillon’s borders; don’t expect bunches covered in hair; rather it’s a fine white fuzz located beneath its leaves.
While its aroma closely resembles traditional Grenache grapes, one significant advantage during winemaking is its ability to maintain lower alcohol levels compared to standard Grenache which tends to reach 14-15% alcohol content easily. Could Lledoner Pelut be a contender for future prominence? Only time will tell!
Turn to our the passage below for our curated selection featuring 100 vintages of either Grenache Noir or Lledoner Pelut.
Domaine de la Préceptorie, IGP Côtes Catalanes, 2023, Blanc de Noirs
100% Grenache Oh what a lovely nose! Crisp red fruits that promise us substance and deliciousness in this very fresh white on the palate and perfectly balanced with a pleasant acidity. We enjoy it chilled, as an aperitif and throughout a garden meal. Enjoy it at around 13 €.
Domaine de l’Arca, IGP Côtes Catalanes, 2022, Salvatge Rouge
100% Grenache It’s beautiful, it’s round, it’s charming. We detect aromas of dried flowers, elegant and complex. On the finish, its Catalan power is revealed to leave us with a spicy and liquorice memory. You can find it at your wine shop for €10.90.
Château de l’Ou, IGP Côtes Catalans, 2019, Grenache Rhapsody
100% Grenache It has a calm and accomplished base of the greats of this world. Its maturity is matched only by its elegance. A powerful but balanced wine, with aromas of blackberry jam and black cherry underlined by perfectly controlled spicy and woody notes. A conversation wine for special occasions at 70 €
Domaine Domanova-Motsanes, IGP Côtes Catalanes, Red, 2022, La Loi du Cépage
100% Grenache Philippe Janiot defines his wines as airy, and it’s true that this Grenache tends to make us take off: a floral and fruity treat! Smooth and delicious as you wish, served chilled, it goes perfectly with a game of petanque with friends. You can find it at your local wine store for around 12 €
Domaine du Lendemain, IGP Côtes Catalanes, Red, 2021, El Pelut
Hairy Grenache! 100% hairy lledoner If we doubted the character of hairy lledoner, this wine shows us that it is important to know how to tame it. After a first wild and animal nose, it lets itself soften to offer us beautiful aromas of black fruits and a tender suppleness in the mouth. Enjoy at 16€.
Clos del Rey – Montagné Family, IGP Côtes Catalanes, Red, 2022, La Noia
Another 100% Grenache A wine made from vineyards planted in altitude (300 m) and it shows! Its clear ruby colour also suggests it. We appreciate its smooth material. It has fruity freshness in its body that there is not outside. You can enjoy it at 17 €.
Le Clos d’Elpis, IGP Côtes Catalanes, Red, 2022, Pandora
At 100% Grenache a very gentle nose, in jammy seduction. In the mouth it reveals itself to be powerful and evolves into a rich, even creamy, spicy material. A wine that deserves to be kept: let’s be patient before opening the Pandora’s jar. Available at wine stores at 25 €
Serre Romani, IGP Côtes Catalans, Red, 2023, “Revelation”
This 100% Grenache wine digestible, fresh and lively, this pretty red exudes fresh fruit. We taste with appetite very pleasant aromas of crushed cherry and fresh blackberry. A refreshing pepper balances the whole at around 11 €
Mas Amiel, IGP Côtes Catalanes, Red, 2023, Natural Grenache
A 100% Grenache wine without added sulfite. It is so well made, it must be emphasized! The balance here is impeccable, between its vinous nose and its delicious mouth of barely worked wild fruits. Its silky tannins in make a delicious drink to serve as an aperitif as on small game. Enjoy at around 15 €.
Arnaud de Villeneuve, IGP Côtes By pare Catalanes, Red, 2022, Grenache Old Vines
100% Grenache We can feel the minerality brought by the old vine effect here. This wine with a sparkling ruby color evolves between an elegant salinity and aromas of morello cherry. The nicely spicy finish gives it all its deliciousness. at only 8-10€
- Languedoc Roussilon – 100 % Grenache! - September 23, 2024
