Flight of the Week - What is a GSM?

Date:	Tue, Oct 15, 2024
Venue:	Vin Rouge Wine Bar & Tasting Room

A GSM blend is a red wine made from a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre grapes. They are full-bodied and known for their bright fruit flavors, with notes of blackberry and plum. They are a tradition in the Rhône Valley in Southern France, but are also produced in other regions that have vineyards with steep inclines, low rainfall, minerally and alluvial soils, and hot summers, such as Spain [where the blend is thought to have originated], South Australia, South Africa, and Central Coast of California

Winemakers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape created the French appellation system in 1936, cementing rules around the red blend. Today, 19 grape varieties are allowed in GSM, but at least 70% of the wine must be from its three namesake varietals. Syrah is favored in the northern stretches of the Rhône, while Grenache and Mourvèdre lead more in the south.

Each member of the classic trio contributes different notes and styles. Generally speaking, Grenache delivers delicate red-fruit notes, while Syrah brings black fruits, structure and spice. Full-bodied Mourvèdre grounds the blend with blue fruits like plum and savory notes.

These blends are an easy entry point into bold reds, with the three varietals smoothing and enhancing a wide range of notes. Timing plays a role in its easy-drinking nature: Syrah and Grenache both ripen in the middle of harvest season, followed by Mourvèdre. The timeframe is perfect for producing a balanced blend.

Each grape can hold its own as a single-varietal, so winemakers often find it easier to play with percentages and define their own personal style. Much like a chef, making blends is like using different ingredients. Red-fruit, balanced Grenache meets savory Syrah followed by brambleberry, gamey Mourvèdre.