A Taste Adventure ... Elements of a Rhône Blend

Wines Delicious Separate and Together

Six 50ml (1.7 oz.) mini bottles

The words on many a vino’s lips right now are GSM GSM GSM. What does this mean? And why all the buzz? GSM is the traditional blend of the Southern Rhône Valley (Grenache/Syrah/Mourvèdre) and it’s popular because it’s delicious. Understand these wines by tasting the varietals on their own and then together. 
 
Start your flight by getting to know the nuances and characteristics of the three primary grapes used in Rhône-style blends. Mourvèdre brings structure, intense fruit, and aromas of dark berries to the blend—experience a pure and gorgeous example from Quivira in Sonoma County. Grenache is a much lighter, sweet-tasting wine—savor its elegance and complexity with the David Girard from Sierra Foothills. Syrah is one of the world’s most noble and popular grapes, it brings savory fruit and subtle spice to the blend—be awed by the rich and opulent Peter Lehmann from Australia. 
 
Now, compare these wines to three blends inspired by the Southern Rhône Valley with the captivating Ben Glaetzer from Australia, the fruity and complex Louis Bernard from the Côtes du Rhône, and the explosive Epiphany from Santa Barbara. 
 
What do you think? Is one a lonely number—are these grapes better together? Or do these varietals need the limelight to shine?