Grenache Blanc

Grenache Blanc is a white grape that is genetically related to the red grape Grenache. Found, most famously, in blended wines in the Rhône Valley, this fleshy grape is now the fifth most widely planted white variety in France.

In the vineyard, this grape appears golden.

Grenache Blanc is a relatively flexible grape that can withstand the vicissitudes of temperature and climate. In warm areas, it produces richer, more fruit-forward wines that are straw-colored and medium-bodied. It is often blended with Roussanne or Muscat.

Wines made from Grenache Blanc are on the fuller side, with citrus notes, stone fruit and pear on the palate. When aged in oak, as the variety often is, it can assume some of the same flavors as Chardonnay, like toast and brioche.

While Grenache Blanc is integral to the Rhône Valley, offering a backbone to Châteauneuf-du-Pape (and, additionally, to Côtes du Rhône Villages AOP, where 10% of it can be used in red blends), it is also used in the production of vin doux naturel wines. About half of the grape’s plantings are in the Roussillon, where it is primarily blended with other varieties.

The grape can also be found in Spain, where it is planted in Catalonia, the Priorat, Alella and Aragon. It has also been used in the production of some wines in Australia.

Synonyms: Alicante Blanca, Feher Grenache, Garnacha Blanca, Garnatxa Blanca, Belan, Vernatxa Blanca, Rool Grenache, White Grenache, Silla Blanc, Sillina Blanc