This is actually the world's second most widely planted variety. In Spain it is known as Garnacha.
Characteristics: Its red wines are not generally very deeply coloured but can exhibit lovely flavours of game and smokiness coupled with ripe strawberry fruitiness. In France it is nearly always blended with other varieties, particularly Syrah and Mourvèdre to create some of the world's great southern Rhône wines like Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Vacqueyras.
Where is it found?: Rhône, Ardèche, Languédoc, Spain, Sardinia and Australia.
Wines associated: Australia, Rhône and Spain (Garnacha)