Grenache or Garnacha is one of the most widely planted red wine grape varieties in the world. It ripens late, so it needs hot, dry conditions such as those found in Spain, where the grape most likely originated. It is also grown in the Italian isle of Sardinia, the south of France, Australia, and California’s Monterey AVA and San Joaquin Valley. Deliciously, round, fruity and heartwarming, grenache can be truly majestic when done well. Its likeability comes largely from its full body and sensation of sweetness which comes from its high levels of alcohol and glycerol. Expect plump, red fruits, black cherry, baking spice flavours and a hit of white pepper, developing into jammier, stewed fruit flavours in hotter regions.