G'day, grenache

Grenache, garnacha, cannonau, call it what you will because it answers to any name. It’s a grape of more faces and places than Jason Bourne and wears more masks than any caped crusader we can recall. 

It can make plush rosés or vibrant reds, and can even be spiced up with a bit of S&M (that’s Shiraz & Mataro, behave). So what do you do with the superhero grape that can do anything? 

At the ‘fo we’re starting to think the question is whether that bottle you’re drinking fits the occasion, or stands out like the Babadook at a book club.

So as we’re coming into spring, here’s a few suggestions for which to do when…

Sunny afternoon picnics at the park - grenache-based rosé

Save the gasps - it’s no secret that rosé and picnics in the park is a winner; it caps casual conversation in the sun like the cherry on top of a cake. Speaking of fruit, Grenache brings juicy ripe reds to rose blends (think strawberry, or even watermelon) and a vibrancy that adds a silver lining to any clouds in the spring sky. It’s not just picnics it can do though - the next time you’re watching sport in the afternoon try giving it a go. Trust the ‘fo. 

We recommend: Domaine Gassier Brise de Grenache Rosé 2020

Family barbecues - Single varietal red

On its own, Grenache brings a warmth to match the heat of the grill. Like jeans and a nice shirt it’s a great all rounder - bringing the levity to laugh along with cousins as well as the structure to match dad’s conversations about super performance. It also loves the other guests at the barbecue - rich enough to go toe-to-toe with lamb or beef, and keeps itself honest with chicken, prawns or barramundi; it can even handle a touch of spice. Always welcome.

We recommend: Naked Run Wines The Aldo Grenache 2020

Relaxed evenings - GSM

Whether sitting on the balcony soaking up the last of the dusk afterglow, or huddled under a blanket in front of the fire - it’s GSM you’re looking for. To further borrow lines from Lional Ritchie’s “Hello”, in your dreams it feels like it’s kissed your lips a thousand times - juicy, spiced, Shiraz and Mataro helping to lend something fuller and a bit more sultry to match. Plenty of fun to be had here.

We recommend: Powell & Son Riverside GSM 2019

Whatever you’re planning, grenache can be there with bells on.