Origins and Global Presence of Cinsault and Grenache
Cinsault: The Mediterranean’s Unsung HeroCinsault has its roots in Southern France, especially in the sun-drenched vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon. Some believe it may be even older, with possible origins in the Eastern Mediterranean, but it has been a key player in French wine for centuries. Early records from the 1600s mention Cinsault under different names, and genetic links tie it closely to other classic southern French grapes.
Its natural ability to handle heat and drought helped Cinsault spread across the Mediterranean and into former French colonies, including Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, where it remains widely grown. The grape found a second home in South Africa, where it was once the most planted red variety and became famous as the parent of Pinotage. Cinsault also traveled to California, Australia, Italy (as Ottavianello), Lebanon, and even Chile’s Itata Valley, where old vines are now making exciting wines. Its many names and styles across the globe reflect its adaptability and quiet importance in warm-climate winemaking.Grenache: The World TravelerGrenache, or Garnacha, is believed to have first taken root in Aragón, Spain, with a possible alternative beginning on the island of Sardinia, where it is called Cannonau. Its journey began in the Middle Ages, spreading through Mediterranean Europe thanks to trade and the influence of the Crown of Aragón. Over the centuries, Grenache became a foundation grape in Southern France, Sardinia, and beyond, prized for its resilience and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates.
Today, Grenache is one of the world’s most widely planted and recognized grapes. In Spain, it shines in regions like Priorat and Rioja, while in France, it forms the backbone of famous blends from Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the Southern Rhône. Australia’s old bush vines produce rich, bold Grenache, and in the United States, especially California and Washington, it is gaining respect for both blends and varietal wines. Its global reach extends to South Africa and other warm regions, where its versatility continues to inspire winemakers and wine lovers alike.
Its natural ability to handle heat and drought helped Cinsault spread across the Mediterranean and into former French colonies, including Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, where it remains widely grown. The grape found a second home in South Africa, where it was once the most planted red variety and became famous as the parent of Pinotage. Cinsault also traveled to California, Australia, Italy (as Ottavianello), Lebanon, and even Chile’s Itata Valley, where old vines are now making exciting wines. Its many names and styles across the globe reflect its adaptability and quiet importance in warm-climate winemaking.Grenache: The World TravelerGrenache, or Garnacha, is believed to have first taken root in Aragón, Spain, with a possible alternative beginning on the island of Sardinia, where it is called Cannonau. Its journey began in the Middle Ages, spreading through Mediterranean Europe thanks to trade and the influence of the Crown of Aragón. Over the centuries, Grenache became a foundation grape in Southern France, Sardinia, and beyond, prized for its resilience and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates.
Today, Grenache is one of the world’s most widely planted and recognized grapes. In Spain, it shines in regions like Priorat and Rioja, while in France, it forms the backbone of famous blends from Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the Southern Rhône. Australia’s old bush vines produce rich, bold Grenache, and in the United States, especially California and Washington, it is gaining respect for both blends and varietal wines. Its global reach extends to South Africa and other warm regions, where its versatility continues to inspire winemakers and wine lovers alike.