Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1025306
N obody knows exactly who coined the phrase "Everything old is new again," but it couldn't be more apropos when talking about a classic grape from Europe's Mediterranean region. Known as Garnacha in Spain and Grenache in France, this ancient variety is becoming a new star once again. Ampelographers (scientists who identify and classify grape vines) have traced the origin of Garnacha/Grenache to northern Spain's Aragon region, but the grape's suitability to the warm, dry Mediterranean climate saw it spread to other Spanish regions. It then ventured across the Pyrenees Mountains into Roussillon (which was once under the Crown of Aragon) and further to southern France and Sardinia, as well as other worldwide locales. In addition to serving as the "G" in familiar GSM blends alongside Syrah and Mourvèdre, Grenache is now back in the spotlight as a stand- alone varietal wine. Just call it "the grape you never knew you knew." Europe: W here Garnacha/Grenache Is King France and Spain are by far the world leaders in plantings of Grenache and Garnacha. With great attention to terroir, modern winemaking tech- niques, local know-how, and century-old vineyards, the dry Mediterranean regions on both sides of the Pyrenees represent the purest expression of Garnacha/Grenache as a varietal wine. It's in these terroirs that this grape can unleash its most intense and captivating expressions. The content of this article represents the views of the author only and is his/her sole responsibility. The European Commission and the Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency (CHAFEA) do not accept any responsibility for any use that may be made of the information it contains. • P R O T E C TE D D E S I GNA T I O N O F O R I G I N • PHOTO COURTESY OF GARNACHA/GRENACHE Garnacha/Grenache grows best in warm, windy, and dry climates like that of Europe's Mediterranean region. The European Union's Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographic Indication (PGI) certifications confirm quality and authenticity. GARNACHA/ GRENACHE EXCELS AS A STANDALONE VARIETY by David Gadd The European Grape You Never Knew You Knew