GET INTO GROLLEAU : THE GEEKY GRAPE FROM THE LOIRE THAT'S TRENDING HARDCORE THIS SPRING

There are literally a treasure trove of forgotten grapes from the Loire Valley that are coming back into vogue because younger winemakers are discovering them and falling in love. Grolleau is one of them. If you’re majorly feeling light, juicy and fruity fresh rosés this Spring, check out ones made with Grolleau!

The History Of Grolleau

Grolleau’s origins are kind of sketchy - nobody really knows where exactly this grape came from. It was named Grolleau after the dark color of its berries after the French word “Grolle” which means “Crow.” Yet sadly, Grolleau was never a starring grape. It often ended up playing supporting roles while Pinot Noir and Gamay got all the love.

Because of its higher yields, Grolleau was considered a “workhorse,” grape and was planted everywhere. Winemakers in the late 19th Century would often be drawn to its dark color and use it in rosé .

The Best Places To Find Grolleau

You’re going to want to look into finding a bottle of Grolleau from the Loire Valley - more specifically the Touraine, Anjou and Saumur regions. Grolleau thrives best when grown in cooler climates, which helps it retain its acid-driven profile. A lot of Grolleau wines are blended with other grapes - like Pinot Noir and Gamay.

Most Grolleau wines are rosés, but you can find the occasional lighter-bodied red as well. These reds are usually very Glou Glou, and are airy and drinkable. The rosés made from Grolleau are often very fresh, lemony and easy drinking — perfect for brunches and warmer days.

PICK OF THE WEEK: LES VENDANGES DE F. CHIDAINE TOURAINE ROSÉ $19.00 @ Stanley’s Wet Goods

Pink lemonade isn’t for kids anymore. The Touraine Rosé from Les Vendanges de F. Chidaine is a lemony, high acid pink wine that drinks a lot like a really tart expression of Muscadet or some such wine. If you’re the type of person who won’t touch a wine with just the slightest kiss of sugar, definitely consider giving this pink wine a shot.

This rosé is a blend of Grolleau and Pinot Noir, fermented in stainless steel vats on native yeasts. A delightfully fresh and fruity wine that’s racier than an EDM concert. Consider pairing this really acidic rosé with fried chicken. Or better yet, have it at brunch with some chicken and waffles!