08/18/08 Grenache

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. Recently a listener wrote "I am not familiar with a wine that I was served from France. It was called Grenache. What can you tell me about it?" On today's program we'll find out a little about Grenache. Grenache is a grape that is widely grown throughout the world and it is very interesting. It grows best in very dry areas and is usually quite severely pruned; otherwise, the foliage canopy will cover the grapes far too densely. Grenache is usually blended with other grapes such as Mouvedre or Syrah because they are higher in color and tannin. Grenache has many homes predominantly in France, Spain and Australia and is made in many styles from pale dry rose wines to serious red wines such as Chatueauneuf-du-Pape or Gigondas. When it comes to matching it with food it is a natural with cheeses such as mild cheddar, fontina, gouda and jarlsberg. I have also found that it goes well with foods that I would not have imagined such as the smoky eggplant spread babghanouj and tandoori oven cooked meats as well as Jambalaya. Fabulous with Lamb, filet mignon, roasted game birds and Barbecue. Grenache will range from moderately priced to very expensive so if you're going to explore it ask for some recommendations. Try some from Australia, Spain and France just to check out the differences. Remember to send your wine questions to Linda to vine to wine dot net and thanks for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.