Wine lovers are growing in number on an almost daily basis. In fact in the U.S. the number of people who enjoy a glass of wine on a regular basis is expected to grow to around 100m by 2025 – that’s 40% of the adults in the country. One of the reasons for this is that during that timeframe the next generation of drinkers will reach legal drinking age. These are consumers who are moving away from traditional tipples such as beer (notwithstanding the number of craft breweries that have sprung up). Wine simply provides an experience that is as varied as the countries of origin – and that number has been growing. This increased variety has also served to drive down prices – making the purchase of great wine even more affordable.
There is also the matter of domestic production in the United States – today there are simply so many choices when it comes to enjoying a glass of wine. However, for those who want to experience the full possibilities of many different types of wine the ‘Old World’ wine producing nations such as France, Italy and Spain are still worth exploring.
One of the best of these wines is Grenache wine. This is produced in both Spain (where the variety of grapes used in production had its origin) and in France, where some of the best wines of this type are produced (including the spectacular Rhone blend Châteauneuf-du-Pape). Many of the exceptional wines that use Grenache are blends. Grenache adds a depth of flavor and alcohol content, as well as a fruitiness to those products. Of course, there are wines available which only use Grenache as an ingredient – and these offer a rewarding experience.
Grenache wine has found ready acceptance from red wine lovers across the globe in part due to the fresh flavors of berry and even a lingering pepper highlight. It is one of those wines that will reward easy drinking – however, some varieties may be pricey, including those produced in the U.S. where the wine is grown in California. A good example of a pricey version is the 2012 ‘Sine Qua Non Rattrapante Grenache’ grown in Santa Barbara which tests bank balances at just under $500. However, it must be said that it is a wine that is worth this price. It is richly layered with a complex flavor profile. For those who want to simply get great value and still enjoy the complexities of Grenache wine, there are many other alternatives. For instance the ‘Bodegas Ateca Atteca 2015’ from Spain which has a decidedly wallet-friendly price of under $15.
Looking for meals to pair this wine with is a rewarding experience in itself. It pairs marvelously with dishes such as Beef Bourguignon and lamb. In fact, it would also be a welcome addition at a barbecue where ribs are being prepared over an open flame. The hearty nature of the wine makes it the perfect accompaniment for dishes served in the colder days of fall and winter.
The nature of Grenache makes it perfect for those who want to experience something a little different and who enjoy a hearty, heavier style of red wine – get some today and find out why it remains a firm favorite with wine lovers across the globe.