Grenache vs Syrah
How to tell them apart in a blind tasting
The clearest separator between Grenache and Syrah is tannin: Grenache is Medium while Syrah is Medium(+). Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Structure compared
| Structure compared | Grenache | Syrah |
|---|---|---|
| Acidity | Medium | Medium |
| Tannin | Medium | Medium(+) |
| Body | Medium(+) | Full |
| Alcohol | High | High |
| Color intensity | Medium | Deep |
| Aromatic intensity | Medium(+) | Pronounced |
Signature aromas
Grenache
strawberryred plumwhite pepper
Syrah
blackberryblack peppersmoke
Common questions
- How do you tell Grenache and Syrah apart in a blind tasting?
- The clearest separator between Grenache and Syrah is tannin: Grenache is Medium while Syrah is Medium(+). Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
- Is Grenache or Syrah higher in tannin?
- On the WSET ladder, Grenache is Medium and Syrah is Medium(+) for tannin.
- Are Grenache and Syrah red or white?
- Grenache and Syrah are both red grape varieties.