Garnacha

Also: Grenache · Garnacha Tinta · Cannonau · Grenacha

Garnacha originates from Aragón and from there conquered the Mediterranean. In France it's called Grenache and is the base of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the GSM blend (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre), and the great rosés of Provence. In Spain, Priorat elevated it to the status of a great grape with old-vine wines, high concentration, and an unmistakable mineral profile. It's a grape highly resistant to drought and heat, which is why it thrives in arid zones where other grapes struggle. Its berries have relatively thin skin and abundant juice, which produces wines of pale color but generous alcohol (13.5–15%) and marked red fruit. Oxidation is its great enemy in the winery — it requires careful handling. In Argentina, Valle de Uco and Salta are planting high-altitude Garnacha with very interesting results. It's a grape that seems destined to grow in the country, especially in zones where other more demanding grapes don't ripen well.