While Syrah is king in the northern Rhône, Grenache rules its southern sphere. There, it is produced as either a blended or varietal wine. The hardy grape adapts well to the region’s warm, dry climate, producing wines that are light in color but full-bodied and fairly alcoholic. Grenache generally brings ripe and jammy red fruit, spice, herbal character, and earth to blends. Its resulting wines range from value to splurge-worthy and easy-drinking to insanely complex.

Our illustrated guide is the ultimate intro to this classic red grape.

An illustrated guide to Grenache