How should I serve and store Grenache wine?

What temperature should Grenache be served at?

A wine guide gives about 60 to 65 degrees F (15 to 18 C) and notes that room temperature is too warm. Medium-bodied Grenache can taste hot and flat when warm. If the bottle is warm, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes, then let it sit out for about 10 minutes. Grenache rosé and white Grenache should be colder, like other rosé and white wines.

What glass and food?

The guide suggests a Burgundy-style glass, which gives the wine room to breathe. Grenache typically runs about 13.5 to 16% alcohol. Pairings it suggests include slow-cooked meats, stews, mushroom risotto, grilled vegetables and cheeses such as Manchego, Brie and mild cheddar.

Does Grenache need decanting?

Not usually needed. The guide suggests letting the wine sit for about 10 minutes after opening so it can breathe; an older bottle with sediment should be stood upright and poured slowly.

How should you store unopened Grenache?

• Cool, dark and steady, away from heat and sunlight.
• Corked bottles on their side to keep the cork damp.
• Not on top of the fridge or in a warm kitchen.
• Check the producer’s advice on how long a particular bottle will keep.

How long does opened Grenache last?

Sources disagree. Many guides give about 3 to 5 days for opened red wine that is re-corked and refrigerated, and about 2 to 3 days for lighter, lower-tannin reds such as Grenache. The safer assumption is 2 to 3 days. Let it warm up a little before pouring. If it smells like vinegar or tastes flat, discard it.

Common mistakes

• Serving it warm.
• Leaving the bottle open on the counter.
• Storing in sunlight.