White Grenache
Definition - What does White Grenache mean?
White Grenache or Grenache Blanc is a white wine grape variety, native to Northeast Spain. A mutation of the red wine grape varietal of Grenache, wines produced with White Grenache are characterized by moderate to low acidity, high alcohol and refreshing floral, herbal and citrus flavors and aromas. White Grenache is often used in blended white and red wines, however, due to its oxidation rate it is limited to 10% or less in most red wines.
WineFrog explains White Grenache
Known for its smooth and very long finish, yields of White Grenache have to be managed or the grapes will overproduce and lead to flabby wines. However, when managed properly in hot, dry climates such as those in the North of Spain, the South of France, Australia and California, the grapes have pronounced flavors with a high sugar content at harvest. Most often used in blends to boost flavor and longevity, White Grenache can be found in white blends from the Rhone Valley; including Cotes du Rhone AOCs and Chateauneuf du Pape as well as reds from the Rhone, including: Rivesaltes AOC and Cotes du Rhone Villages AOC wines, up to 10%.
The amount of White Grenache is limited in red wine due to the grapes' high oxidation. To develop the flavors, winemakers can use many different types of fermentation and wine techniques for White Grenache including: cool fermentation, extended skin maceration, malolactic fermentation, lees stirring and oak aging. White Grenache is often blended with Muscat or Roussanne and adds its refreshing flavors of floral, citrus, herb and anise as well as a full body body and well rounded mouthfeel.
