Graciano is a Spanish red wine grape that was developed
initially in Rioja where it is considered a ‘noble’ vine.Graciano is a challenging, low-yielding variety that is often
made into a Gran Reserva because of its great lasting ability. This wine is characterised by its deep red colour and strong
aroma and ability to age well. Graciano thrives in warm, arid climates. Locally,
it is grown by Savina Lane.'Graciano was growing here when we bought the vineyard and we are thrilled with
the spicy notes and and silky mouth feel with a medium body red', says Brad from Savina Lane.
Savina Lane Reserve Graciano 2012 won Gold at the 2014 Australian Alternative Varieties Show in Mildura Victoria. Here's what the label says:
GRACIANO RESERVE 2012
Elegant spice notes with aromas of raspberry and plum. Intense mulberry, blackberry and vanilla flavours deliver a powerful finish backed with superfine grainy tannins.
From the Rioja region of Spain, Graciano thrives in our small vineyard at 850m on the cool border plateau of the Granite Belt. Perfect with all red meat dishes, especially venison and lamb. Serve around 18°C Alcohol: 14.2% Cellaring: 2024
Savina Lane Reserve Graciano 2012 won Gold at the 2014 Australian Alternative Varieties Show in Mildura Victoria. Here's what the label says:
GRACIANO RESERVE 2012
Elegant spice notes with aromas of raspberry and plum. Intense mulberry, blackberry and vanilla flavours deliver a powerful finish backed with superfine grainy tannins.
From the Rioja region of Spain, Graciano thrives in our small vineyard at 850m on the cool border plateau of the Granite Belt. Perfect with all red meat dishes, especially venison and lamb. Serve around 18°C Alcohol: 14.2% Cellaring: 2024
Fringewine blog on-line @ http://fringewine.blogspot.com.au/2011/02/graciano-rioja-spain.html
has this to say about the variety:
‘Graciano is thought to be native to Rioja, where it is used
to provide color and aroma to blended Rioja red wines... Typically, it makes up
less than 15% of the blend when it is used at all. It can also be found in
neighboring Navarra. Graciano was once very widely grown in the
Languedoc-Roussillon region of France where it was known as Morrastel (which
can be confusing, as Morrastel is a Spanish synonym for Mourvedre) but it was
uprooted in the late 20th century in favor of hardier, more productive
varietals, especially something called Morrastel Bouchet which was a cross
between Graciano and Petit Bouschet developed by Henri Bouschet. There is some
grown in Australia, where it is known as Morrastel (though some of this may be
Mourvedre as well), and some grown in California, where it is known as Xeres.
It is thought that Portugal's Tinta Miúda may actually be Graciano.’
Are you confused yet?
Graciano is good with red meat, in particular, venison and
lamb, or other stronger tasting or gamey meats. Check out an award winner at
Savina Lane.
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