Grenache Shiraz Mataro (GSM)
When most people think of McLaren Vale they think of Shiraz. However, many winemakers like myself think about Grenache. This is a very versatile variety. You can make anything from the lightest, most delicate Rosé to a full bodied red, or tawny port! Grenache typically does not have as much natural tannin as Shiraz or Cabernet from the same area but it makes up for it with flavour. Grenache has a very broad range of fruit aromas and flavours it can display, such as strawberry, raspberry, black and white pepper, violets and savoury meats just to scratch the surface. When blended with Shiraz and Mataro, the fullness, length and texture can be brought to new levels. If I had to choose one wine style from McLaren Vale to drink from now on, this would be it.
Tasting notes; “The colour is a bright cherry red with purple hues. Ripe dark cherry aromas, followed by fresh raspberry and pomegranite lift from the glass. As it opens up, spices, earth and oaky tones become bolder, hinting at the depth and complexity within. Vibrant berry fruits are apparent early on the palate, and stay put long after you swallow. The weight is spot on, with the wine delivering abundant flavour, as well as ample texture and tannin along its length. The up-front bright fruit flavours provide broad appeal but the depth and complexity are there for those who like to dive deeper.” Scott Heidrich, Winemaker.
“Delish! Such an easy slurp. An anytime wine given its approachability, and that’s precisely what you want in the glass on many occasions.
What’s not to enjoy? Dark red fruits, char, and earthy feels, each element of the blend contributes well. There is a soothing and charismatic presence about it too. A curious whiff of mint is tucked in behind. Given its approachability, it’s hard to say no to another glass. Woodfired pizza and wing night are sorted.
Drink to five years.”
92 Points, Steve Leszczynski, QWine reviews, February 2022
Style features
Open fermented, hand plunged and basket pressed. Matured in 4+YO French Puncheons.
Vintage Rating
8/10. A healthy growing season which produced bright concentrated wines.
Food Matching
I’d drink this with marinated bbq pork ribs, grilled eggplant with miso glaze, mushrooms sautee’d with butter and garlic, and my favourite ‘Fonzi’ pizza from Ey Fonzi.
When to drink
Drink now to 2030
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.