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Discover Grenache Blanc Wine: A Beginner’s Guide
Grenache Blanc wine is more than just a cousin to the red Grenache grape (aka Grenache Noir). It’s one of the most underrated white grapes used for many of the white blends in France. And they are typically affordable, with most bottles selling for under $30.
So in this blog post, we will explore this varietal in more detail, as well as recommend some of our favorite bottles to try.
Table of Contents
What is Grenache Blanc?
Grenache Blanc (aka Garnacha Blanca) is a white wine made from Grenache Blanc grapes, which is related to the red Grenache (Grenache Noir) grape. And these grapes are known for their high alcohol and low acidity, with herbaceous and/or citrus notes. Furthermore they produce medium to full-bodied wines that can be unoaked or oaked aged.
And its often blended with other varietals, such as Viognier and mainly Roussanne, to add flavor and complexity.
In addition, it’s a remarkably resilient grape that has the ability to thrive and endure varying temperatures and environmental conditions, even drought-like conditions.
And Grenache Blanc vines were first found growing in Spain, but has since been associated primarily with France’s Rhône Valley including the renowned Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Plus its used even more in white blended wines of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. And it has remained a top 5 white wine grape varietal in terms of wine production in France.
Where is it Produced?
Grenache Blanc plantings are grown in many different regions around the world, but mainly in France (Rhone Valley, Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence) and Spain (notably Priorat, Catalonia, Alella, and Aragon).
But its also produces in many other wine regions including Italy, California (Paso Robles), Australia, and South Africa.
Grenache Blanc Tasting Notes
So the tasting notes can range for Grenache Blanc wines, from floral to citrus to stone fruits and herbs. And these are the flavors you will find in this wine: honeysuckle, dried herbs, dill, mineral notes, apricot, lemon curd, honeydew, peach, pear, and green apple.
Plus for oak aged Grenache Blanc you will find similar flavors of oak aged Chardonnay of toast and brioche with a creamier texture.
Grenache Blanc Food Pairings
Grenache Blanc wines pair great with a variety of dishes. And this white wine matches perfectly with dishes that contain an abundance of spices and herbs. So when it comes to food pairing, it goes well with chicken, fish, or pork dishes. Especially when there’s an element of spice in the marinade or accompanying sauce.
- Turkey burgers
- Paella
- Spiced Lamb Chops
- Roasted Pork
- Korean BBQ
- Scallops in butter sauces
- Fruit Salads
- Fried Fish Tacos
Quick Facts
- When oak aged, the wine will taste similar to an oak aged Chardonnay
- White Grenache Blanc is a cousin to the red Grenache (Grenache Noir) wine grape.
- Typically has high alcohol and low acidity, with herbaceous, floral, and citrus notes
- Used as a blend for White Châteauneuf du Pape wine (typically consists of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, and Clairette Blanche).
- Tablas Creek was the first to bring and plant this grape variety (including its cousin, Grenache Noir) to California
7 Best Grenache Blanc Under $30
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1) Conreria d'Scala Dei Les Brugueres Blanc 2021
From Priorat, Spain, this Garnacha Blanca has a beautiful freshness with aromas of white and green fruits. And there are wonderful flavors of green apples, peach, pears, and some mineral notes with a balanced finish.
Overall this is a fantastic wine, that will satisfy any white wine enthusiast!
2) Ridge Vineyards Grenache Blanc 2020
From one of my favorite wineries in California, this Grenache Blanc based blend is a great example of the varietal. Because of the amazing tasting notes of fresh cut grass, green apples, pears, and peaches. Plus, the palate shows more citrus notes with a mineral crisp finish.
3) Rotem & Mounir Saouma Inopia Blanc 2016
From Cotes du Rhone region, this delicious Grenache Blanc boasts a vibrant and intensely fragrant nose of citrus, flowers, and even a hint of salt. And the palate is characterized by intense flavors with an exquisite balance of freshness that will leave you wanting more!
4) Château Mourgues du Grès Galets Dorés Costières-de-Nîmes 2021
Utilizing meticulous temperature regulation, this wine is crafted with the utmost care to preserve its natural fruit and freshness. After fermentation, it ages gracefully in stainless steel barrels for a remarkable finish.
5) Cave Coopérative de Rivesaltes L'Effet Papillon Blanc 2019
This Grenache Blanc based blend reveals aromas of white flowers and citrus zest. And on the palate, it’s a powerful and complex wine with notes of lemon, stone fruits, ripe honeydew, and dried herbs all balanced by fresh acidity on the finish.
6) Domaine Lafage Centenaire Côtes du Roussillon Blanc 2020
A blend of Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris and Roussanne from the Roussillon region in France. And its a medium bodied wine that has fresh and lively with aromas of white peach, citrus and a hint of spice. As well as well-balanced flavors of vanilla, lemon zest, and dried herbs.
7) Brotte Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Hauts de Barville Blanc 2021
Typically this regions produces high-quality Grenache Noir based red wines. But this rich white Châteauneuf du Pape is a great example of what this white Grenache Blanc varietal can provide. Because it’s a delicious full bodied wine that’s loaded with aromas of green apple, honeydew, and grapefruit citrus with a crisp mineral clean finish.
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