Grenache is that overlooked wine friend that you always under-appreciate – it is an incredibly diverse wine with a reputation for making every other grape around it perform better.
Come Friday, September 16 it’s time to celebrate all things red with International Grenache Day.
Originating in the Spanish region of Aragon, this deep purple-red jewel has a sweetness and touch of spiciness that entices wine buffs the world over. At one time known as the Red of Aragon, it has made contributions to many of the globe’s most delightful drops – grab a glass on Friday and indulge.
Here are four fun facts and a truly great Grenache to try by the glass:
•This is a grape of many names – in France it is called Grenache, while in Spain it is known as Garnacha; then there are the one-off monikers like Hairy Grenache.
•There’s more land dedicated to Grenache than any other grape; Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are grown just about everywhere, but Grenache holds down the most territory by the sheer amount of land.
•Grenache has more range than Mariah Carey – it’s a high-yield grape and is generally known for its affordability. However, it can also fetch big dollars as seen in the Californian cult wine Sine Qua Non, which can retail for between $300 and $2000.
Find Melbourne’s most romantic hidden watering hole at Life’s Too Short back vintage wine bar on Victoria Parade. Tucked away in the old bluestone cellars of the original Victoria Brewery, this petite luxe wine bar specialises in back vintage drops, paired with Australian artisan produce, fine beers, ciders and bespoke cocktails.
Drop by on Friday and from 3pm receive a massive 30% off James Halliday's 5-star winery’s iconic Grenache for only $11.90 a glass – but only if you ask nicely! This red is a great pairing with one of the bar’s European cheese platters, or pan-fried gnocchi and meatballs.
Also home to Everything But Gin Distillery and Wine Matchmaker events, Life’s Too Short invites chilling out at the end of the day to relish in a glass of their finest and enjoy delicious fare over long conversations, laughter and friendship.
