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European Garnacha/Grenache is Arguably the Most Eco-Friendly Grape in the World

There is a claim that Grenache may be one of the most eco-friendly grapes in the world. It is the seventh most planted red grape varietal internationally and one of the oldest varietals- making its first appearance in 153 BCE while keeping the highest concentration of old vines within Europe (Spain and France).
So what makes European Garnacha/Grenache so sustainable? Let’s break it down. Starting from the beginning of the life cycle, Grenache is a relatively low-maintenance grape. It doesn’t require a lot to grow as it thrives in poor soils – slate, clay, limestone, pebbles, and sand, allowing the grape to really express terroir diversity. Additionally, it is highly drought-resistant, so it does quite well in dry areas where water is limited.  It does not need any irrigation and thus uses less water supply. Furthermore, due to its sturdy wood, it can withstand the elements such as strong winds in the Mediterranean valleys in Europe, as well as digging deep to find resources in the subsoil.  As the inevitable climate changes affect vines worldwide, European Garnacha has been able to stand up to the changes in weather conditions and has proved to fight the increasingly acidic soils with resilience. The Garnacha/Grenache vine’s malleability in different soil pH’s is also helpful because the acidity of all soils increases over time. This can be due to the leaching of calcium by rainwater – particularly acid rain in urban areas, the addition of fertilizer, or simply the natural decomposition of organic matter. These protected quality schemes areas share a common devotion to Garnacha/Grenache; a majority of their vineyards are planted to the variety, and they represent one of the largest concentrations of quality Garnacha/Grenache wines in Europe. Their wines express the diversity of soils and styles found in the regions.

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