Grape Variety
Graciano
"grah-THYAH-no"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Graciano
Origin
Rioja, Spain
History
Graciano is a red wine grape variety native to Spain, primarily grown in the Rioja and Navarra regions. Historically, it has been used as a blending partner with Tempranillo to enhance the structure, color, and aging potential of Rioja wines. Despite its low yields and susceptibility to diseases, Graciano has seen a resurgence in interest due to its ability to produce high-quality, aromatic wines with excellent aging potential. It is also cultivated in small quantities in regions like Languedoc under the name Morrastel, and in Australia and California.
Appearance
Small, thick-skinned, blue-violet berries forming compact clusters.
Growing Traits
Graciano is a vigorous vine that buds mid to late season and is prone to downy mildew. It is drought-resistant but has low fertility and yields, making it less popular among growers. However, with proper vineyard management, it can produce grapes that contribute great flavors to wines.
Wine Characteristics
Body
4/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
5/5
Acidity
5/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium to full-bodied with a robust structure, offering depth and complexity on the palate. Typically dry, emphasizing its rich fruit character and earthy undertones. High tannin levels, providing firm structure and significant aging potential. High acidity, contributing to its freshness and longevity, making it ideal for aging. Moderate to high alcohol content, typically ranging between 13% and 14.5%, ensuring a balanced and robust wine.
Taste Profile
Blackberry
Plum
Cherry
Tobacco
Leather
Spices
Graciano wines are characterized by deep, inky colors and a rich tapestry of dark fruit notes, including blackberry, plum, and cherry. As the wine matures, it develops complex aromas of tobacco, leather, dried fruits, spices, and chocolate. The high acidity and firm tannins provide a balanced structure, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Food Pairing
Graciano's robust structure and high acidity make it an excellent match for rich, flavorful dishes. It pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb, beef, or game. The wine's spicy and herbal notes complement dishes with Mediterranean herbs, while its tannic backbone stands up to hearty stews and aged cheeses. Its complexity also makes it a good companion for spicy sausages like chorizo.
Growing Regions
Spain
RiojaNavarra
France
Languedoc (as Morrastel)
Australia
South Australia
United States
CaliforniaArizonaTexasOregonWashington
Notable Wines & Producers
Rioja Reserva
Marqués de Murrieta
Bodegas Muga
Navarra Graciano
Bodegas Chivite
Bodegas Julián Chivite
South Australian Graciano
d'Arenberg
Chapel Hill Winery
Graciano FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Graciano?
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Rioja, Spain
Is Graciano wine full bodied?
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Graciano has a body level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Graciano is Moderate to Full bodied.
Is Graciano wine dry or sweet?
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Graciano has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Graciano is Dry.
Where is Graciano wine from?
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Rioja, Spain
Where is Graciano grown?
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Graciano is grown in Spain (Rioja, Navarra)France (Languedoc (as Morrastel))Australia (South Australia)United States (California, Arizona, Texas, Oregon, Washington).
What is Graciano like?
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Graciano wines are characterized by deep, inky colors and a rich tapestry of dark fruit notes, including blackberry, plum, and cherry. As the wine matures, it develops complex aromas of tobacco, leather, dried fruits, spices, and chocolate. The high acidity and firm tannins provide a balanced structure, leading to a long, elegant finish.
What does Graciano pair with?
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Graciano's robust structure and high acidity make it an excellent match for rich, flavorful dishes. It pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb, beef, or game. The wine's spicy and herbal notes complement dishes with Mediterranean herbs, while its tannic backbone stands up to hearty stews and aged cheeses. Its complexity also makes it a good companion for spicy sausages like chorizo.
What does Graciano taste like?
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Graciano wines are characterized by deep, inky colors and a rich tapestry of dark fruit notes, including blackberry, plum, and cherry. As the wine matures, it develops complex aromas of tobacco, leather, dried fruits, spices, and chocolate. The high acidity and firm tannins provide a balanced structure, leading to a long, elegant finish.
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