The Grenache Noir likes a warm Mediterranean climate. It spreads throughout the Mediterranean and is one of the most cultivated vines in the world, but with decreasing tendency. In Italy it is known under the synonyms Cannonau (Sardinia), Alicante or Guarnaccia, in Spain as Garnacha. The Grenache noir is almost always used as a component of cuvées, of which Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the most famous representative. In America and Australia, winemakers who produce these Grenache-Cuvees are called "Rhône-Rangers". Characteristic of the red Grenache is its fruity and soft full flavor, it has a bright red color, which should not lead one to the erroneous idea that this is a light red wine. In the Mediterranean climate, 15% natural alcohol is reached quickly in good years.
