Australian Grenache red wine – the most Spanish of varieities

The best Grenache in Australia is produced from old vineyards in both the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Traditionally blended with Shiraz to create a softer red style, it is also often seen as GSM, a blend of Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre (aka Mataro). Penfolds Bin 138 and red wine from Chateauneuf-du-Pape in the Rhone Valley are famous examples. When not hidden in a blend, Grenache is fruity and warm, just like a good Spanish table red. Unsurprisingly really, as Spain is home to the Grenache grape, known there as Garnacha. As a GSM blend, a 100% Grenache or even as a Rosé, Grenache makes an excellent food wine - try Spanish tapas for a fun food match.