Raise a glass to the varietal that’s beloved by all—all over the world! This International Grenache Day, September 20, 2024, venture beyond classic Cab in Paso Robles Wine Country.
Let’s get clear on Grenache—a grape that’s been capturing the hearts of wine lovers across the ages. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, you’re pretty much guaranteed to fall in love with Grenache.
Why? This crowd-pleasing wine manages to be both sophisticated and approachable. It’s equally at home at a casual dinner with friends or a more formal soiree. So next time you’re considering your wine options, give Paso Robles-grown Grenache a try. It might just become your new go-to!
What are the wine tasting characteristics of Grenache?
Pour up a glass of Paso Robles Grenache with us. What do you taste? The wine typically presents a beautiful ruby hue that’s immediately inviting. On the palate, it offers a medley of red fruits—think strawberries and raspberries—often complemented by deeper notes of black cherry goodness. You might also detect hints of citrus and warm spices like cinnamon. The result? A flavor profile that’s both approachable and intriguing.
One of Grenache’s biggest strengths is its versatility. It can produce wines ranging from light and fruity to rich and powerful, shining both as a single varietal and in blends. This adaptability has helped it find a home in renowned wine regions worldwide, from the Rhône Valley to Priorat, Sicily to South Australia, and of course, here in Paso Robles, California.
It’s worth noting that Grenache often brings a generous alcohol content to the table, typically ranging from 13.5% to 16% ABV. This contributes to its full-bodied character, while moderate tannins make it enjoyable even in its youth. Yes, that means you can enjoy Grenache earlier than some of those typical age-worthy wines. Grenache for the win!
Grenache – from Spain to California
Known as Garnacha in its Spanish homeland, this venerable grape has a rich history stretching back centuries. It got its start in the Aragon region of northern Spain before embarking on a global journey, adapting beautifully to various terroirs along the way. Take Paso Robles, for instance. With its Mediterranean climate, Paso Robles Wine Country provides an ideal canvas for Grenache to express itself naturally. The interplay of warm days and cool nights, influenced by the Pacific, allows Grenache grapes to develop complex flavors while retaining that crucial acidity we all appreciate.
The Magic of GSM: Grenache’s Famous Blend in Paso Robles
While Grenache shines solo, it truly sparkles in the famous “GSM” blends that have become a hallmark of Paso Robles winemaking. GSM—short for Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre—creates a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate. These vibrant wines pulse at the heart and soul of Paso Robles, known for its bold, expressive offerings.
Why should you try a Paso GSM? Grenache’s juicy red berry flavors shine when paired with Syrah’s rich spiciness and Mourvèdre’s deep, savory notes. The result: A wine that’s both complex and approachable, with layers of ripe fruit, peppery spice, and a touch of earthiness. Needless to say, GSM wines complement everything from casual barbecues to fancy dinners. It’s the blend that belongs at every get-together!
Celebrate International Grenache Day in Paso Robles
Rhone Rangers presents International Grenache Day at Peachy Canyon Winery
Grenache lovers: Mark your calendars for a colorful celebration this International Grenache Day, September 20th 2024. Paso Robles is set to showcase the versatility and charm of this beloved varietal in grand style. On September 20th, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, the picturesque lawn of Peachy Canyon Winery will transform into a Grenache lover’s playground, courtesy of the Rhone Rangers.
This curated event brings together 24 of the Central Coast’s finest winemakers, each offering a unique expression of Paso Robles Grenache. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the grape’s impressive range, from effervescent sparkling Grenache to crisp Grenache Blanc, elegant rosés, robust Grenache Noir and masterfully crafted blends.
To complement the wines, guests will enjoy artisanal cheese and charcuterie from Alba Provisions. Live music provides a fun backdrop, so get ready to groove. Featured wineries include Adelaida Vineyards & Winery, Alta Colina, Calcareous Vineyard, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, and Tablas Creek Vineyard, among many others. This gathering offers a unique opportunity to compare various Grenache styles side-by-side, uncovering new favorites in the process.
Event Location: Peachy Canyon Winery
Address: 1480 Niderer Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM / Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
While you’re at Peachy Canyon, don’t miss their standout Grenache blend:
Featured Wine: Peachy Canyon 2022 GSM Blend
Bright and elegant, this Rhône-style blend is a true Paso Robles gem. Bursting with scents of ripe Bing cherries and rose petals, it offers a juicy, balanced palate of strawberries, cassis, and white pepper. The blend of 47% Grenache, 44% Syrah, and 9% Mourvèdre showcases the best of Paso Robles terroir: Bold yet approachable, this wine perfectly captures the effortless vibe of Paso Robles Wine Country. Buy it now
Pairing Suggestion: This versatile blend pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Try it with herb-crusted lamb chops or a wild mushroom risotto. Yum!
Robert Hall Winery International Grenache Day Celebration
Ready to experience the best of Paso Robles Grenache for yourself? Another excellent opportunity to celebrate International Grenache Day in Paso Robles Wine Country presents itself at Robert Hall Winery. This beloved local winery is hosting a day-long tribute to this versatile grape on September 20, 2024. From 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, the winery will open its doors for an intimate exploration of Grenache in its many-splendored forms.
Set against the backdrop of Robert Hall’s picturesque estate, this event offers a more relaxed pace for those who prefer to savor their wine experiences. Plus: At a modest $15 per tasting, it’s an accessible way to delve into the world of Grenache. Cheers to uncovering new Grenache favorites at your own pace!
Event Location: Robert Hall Winery
Address: 3443 Mill Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
While exploring Robert Hall’s Grenache offerings, be sure to try this award-winner:
Featured Wine: Robert Hall 2021 Cavern Select Grenache
This exceptional Grenache, awarded Double Gold Medal and 94 points at the Orange County Wine Competition, is a testament to Paso Robles’ prowess. Sourced from the magical Willow Creek district, known for its calcareous soils, this wine offers notes of black cherries, cinnamon and dried herbs. The palate bursts with flavors of raspberry preserves, leather, and clove, supported by fine-grained tannins and a lingering finish. Aged for 16 months in French oak, it’s a beautifully crafted expression of Paso Robles Grenache. Buy it now
Pairing Suggestion: Enjoy this robust Grenache with pork chops, charcuterie, wood-fired pizza or creamy cheeses like Brie, Manchego and Burrata.
Paso Robles Wineries Making Great Grenache
Pear Valley Vineyards
2020 Estate Grenache
Dive into the ripe richness of Pear Valley Vineyards’ 2020 Estate Grenache. This Paso Robles showstopper leads with sweet Morello cherry and marzipan aromas, complemented by fennel and sage. Medium weight with bold flavors of orange peel, Luxardo cherry, molasses and dried sage, it’s a beautifully concentrated expression of the region’s terroir. Buy it now
Pairing Suggestion: Try the Pear Valley Vineyards 2020 Estate Grenache alongside a charcuterie board featuring smoked meats and aged cheeses.
Address: 4900 Union Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Kiamie Wine Cellars
2019 R’Own Style Blend
Crafted with meticulous care by the small, dedicated team at Kiamie Cellars, this Paso Robles blend offers luxurious notes of elderberry velvet, truffle and new leather. Each sip is a testament to artisanal winemaking. Needless to say, this wine is best enjoyed at the Kiamie Wine Cellars tasting room, an inviting hangout where rolling hills and blue skies meet warm hospitality. Buy it now
Pairing Suggestion: Enjoy the Kiamie Cellars 2019 R’Own Style Blend with grilled lamb chops and roasted vegetables.
Address: 9750 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Thursday – Monday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Chronic Cellars
Love Machine
Embrace the simple luxuries of life with Chronic Cellars‘ Love Machine, a masterful blend of 74% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 6% Mourvèdre. This Paso Robles wine delights with bright aromas of raspberry and cherry cola, accented by cedar and mocha. Its textured mouthfeel leads to an elegant finish, perfect for unwinding and savoring life’s serene moments. It’s a beautiful example of how Paso Robles Grenache shines as a GSM.
Pairing Suggestion: Try the Chronic Cellars Love Machine complementing a spice-rubbed rotisserie chicken.
Address: 2020 Nacimiento Lake Drive, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cass Winery
2022 Grenache
Cass Winery’s 2022 Grenache captivates upon first sip. This light bodied yet intensely flavored Grenache has a bouquet of sweet cherries, strawberries, and anise. The beautiful fruit flavors carry through on the palate with soft acidity, delicate tannin structure and a lovely finish with notes of olallieberry pie and baking spices. Buy it now
Pairing Suggestion: Pair the Cass Winery 2022 Grenache with chorizo and date-stuffed pork tenderloin.
Address: 7350 Linne Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Tasting Room Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Venteux Vineyards
2020 Grenache
Venteux Vineyards presents its crowd-pleasing 2020 Grenache—the perfect host or hostess gift for wine-drinkers of all walks of life. A hand-crafted wine sourced from the winery’s family-owned, dry-farmed Paso Robles estate, it delivers a perfect marriage of spice, body and fruitiness. Buy it now
Pairing Suggestion: Pair Venteux Vineyards 2020 Grenache with a classic Sunday roast and caramelized veggies.
Address: 1795 Las Tablas Road Templeton, CA 93465
Tasting Room Hours: Daily: Noon–5PM
Pairing Paso Robles Grenache
Grenache’s versatility shines not only in the glass but also at the table. Its light color, fine tannins and supple texture make it a fantastic wine for pairing with a wide variety of dishes. Here are four foolproof ways to enjoy Paso Robles Grenache:
On Its Own: Paso Robles Grenache is perfect on its own! Its supple tannins and light acidity make it easy to drink, with a lush and velvety finish. In other words: Grenache is great to the last drop!
Spice It Up: The subtle, warm spicy notes in some Grenache wines, especially those naturally fermented with whole clusters, pair beautifully with dishes seasoned with coriander, cardamom, garam masala, white pepper or allspice. Consider pairing a spicy Paso Robles Grenache with a flavorful Moroccan tagine or Indian curry.
Smoke and Char: Grenache loves smoky flavors. It’s a perfect match for grilled meats, smoky BBQ sauces and even charred vegetables. For a quintessential Paso Robles experience, pair a local Grenache with Santa Maria-style barbecue.
Cheese please: Grenache’s spicy profile allows it to stand up to bolder cheeses. It pairs excellently with firmer, more robust options like aged gouda, sharp cheddar as well as tangy red Leicester. Tip: The Spanish cheese Manchego also makes a fantastic companion to Grenache wines. Check out more Paso Robles cheese and wine pairings.
Dessert Delight: While it’s generally advised to pair desserts with sweeter wines, Grenache can be a delightful exception. Try it with a chocolate pavlova topped with fresh raspberries—the wine’s fruity notes complement the dessert beautifully.
Wrapping Up Your Grenache Journey
As International Grenache Day comes and goes, Paso Robles will continue to showcase its diverse, high-quality Grenache wines, among so many others. Whether you’re a Grenache aficionado or a curious newcomer, Paso Robles’ unique terroir and innovative winemakers offer unforgettable experiences suited for all taste buds.
Looking for a helpful Paso Robles Wine Country map or other ideas for your Paso Robles getaway? Find out more about Paso Robles winery restaurants, events, vineyard stays and more.