Grenache vs Cinsault
Grenache
A pale, high-alcohol black grape with ripe red fruit and relatively soft tannin, central to Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Priorat.
- Strawberry
- Soft tannin
- High alcohol
Recognize it
High alcohol with ripe red fruit and relatively soft tannin for the weight. Strawberry and red plum are common. Color is often paler than the body suggests.
Cinsault
A pale, low-tannin red grape known for red berries and floral notes, common in southern French rosé and red blends.
- Pale color
- Low tannin
- Red berry
Recognize it
Pale color with soft tannin and a light to medium body. Strawberry and raspberry come first, with a floral lift, and the wine feels gentle rather than grippy.
How they compare
- SimilarPale color, low tannin and ripe red fruit.
- DifferenceGrenache is usually fuller-bodied and higher in alcohol.