About Grenache
Vibrant and juicy, with red berries and spice, often found in old-vine Barossa and McLaren Vale plantings.
The Story of Grenache in Australia
Grenache is one of Australia’s most exciting red grape varieties. Once used primarily for fortified wines, it has now become a superstar in its own right, producing bright, fruit-forward wines that rival some of the best from France and Spain.
Originally from Spain (where it's called Garnacha), Grenache thrives in warm, dry conditions, making regions like the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale ideal for its cultivation. Some of Australia’s oldest vines are Grenache, with plantings dating back to the 19th century, producing wines with remarkable intensity and character.
Famous Regions for Australian Grenache
- Barossa Valley – Home to some of the world’s oldest Grenache vines, producing rich, spicy wines with great depth.
- McLaren Vale – Produces vibrant, medium-bodied Grenache with lush red berry fruit and earthy spice.
- Clare Valley – A rising region for Grenache, offering bright, elegant styles.
- Riverland – Produces juicy, fruit-forward expressions, often used in modern, easy-drinking styles.
Notable Australian Grenache Wineries
- Turkey Flat – One of the pioneers of Grenache in Australia, crafting exceptional old-vine expressions.
- Henschke – Producing elegant, structured Grenache with a focus on terroir.
- Hoffmann Vineyards – Known for deeply concentrated, expressive Grenache from old vines.
- Yangarra – A biodynamic producer leading the way in modern Grenache winemaking.
What Does Grenache Taste Like?
Australian Grenache is all about juicy red fruits—think raspberry, strawberry, and cherry—combined with earthy spice, floral notes, and silky tannins. Barossa and McLaren Vale Grenache tends to be fuller-bodied, while cooler sites produce a more delicate, lifted style.
Winemaking Styles & New Trends
In recent years, Grenache has seen a resurgence in popularity, with winemakers treating it with more care and finesse. Whole-bunch fermentation is becoming common, adding spice and structure, while minimal oak usage allows the bright fruit to shine.
Grenache is also a key component of GSM blends (Grenache, Shiraz, Mataro), where it brings juiciness and vibrancy to the mix. Some winemakers are experimenting with carbonic maceration to produce lighter, fresher, chillable styles.
Similar Wines to Try
- Pinot Noir – A great alternative for those who enjoy elegant, red-fruited wines with soft tannins.
- Zinfandel – Similar in its bright fruit and spice, but often fuller-bodied.
- Gamay – Lighter and more floral but shares Grenache’s juicy, approachable nature.
- Tempranillo – A touch more savoury, with red fruit and earthy depth.
Recommended Australian Grenache Wines
Looking to try an incredible Grenache? These handpicked selections showcase the best of Australian Grenache:
- Yangarra Old Vine Grenache – A stunning, biodynamic expression with deep complexity.
- Purple Hands Grenache – A bright, fruit-driven Grenache with superb balance.
- Greenock Creek Grenache – A powerful, old-vine Grenache from Barossa.
- Turkey Flat Grenache – A benchmark example of Barossa Grenache, with spice and finesse.
Food Pairing with Grenache
Grenache’s bright fruit and soft tannins make it a dream for food pairing. It works beautifully with roast lamb, chargrilled vegetables, slow-cooked meats, and Mediterranean dishes. A chilled glass of lighter Grenache is also fantastic with cured meats and hard cheeses.
Explore Australian Grenache
At Wine Simple, we stock a handpicked selection of incredible Australian Grenache wines. Whether you're after a rich, old-vine expression or a fresh, modern take, we’ve got a bottle for you.
Looking for the perfect Grenache? Browse our selection here.
