Spanish Grenache

Grenache – or Garnacha, to give it its native name – is an increasingly important part of Spain’s red-wine identity, be it as a blending component or in playing the lead role. Long a supporting partner to the dominant Tempranillo in Rioja, today producers there are incorporating it more conspicuously, even if that means making wines that do not conform to the strict criteria of the DOCa. Its lighter, elegant nuance is in line with prevailing fashion, and also the direction of travel in terms of climate, with it better able than many varieties to withstand higher temperatures. Priorat, in particular, specialises in the variety, its slate soils providing a particularly vibrant and compelling iteration of the grape.