GSM

Red

(GSM pronunciation: G-S-M)



GSM is the acronym for a red wine blend including Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. GSM wine grapes are grown mostly in the Côtes du Rhône region of France with some production in the warmer climates of Spain, South Australia, South Africa, and part of the United States. California GSM wine, specifically produced in Paso Robles, was adopted by a group that calls themselves the Rhône Rangers, for they continue the original wine making methods used in southern Rhône.

The GSM wine blend gathers different flavors from each of the three grape varieties involved. Grenache, which is the lightest of the three grapes, is often the most prominent grape in GSM blends, although some winemakers prefer using more Syrah to create a bolder GSM wine. In this blend, Grenache is used to add soft spice, berry flavors, and alcohol. Syrah gives the wine its sturdy structure along with adding dark fruit flavors and smoked meat and black pepper properties to the wine. Finally, Mourvèdre adds color, tannins, length, and earthy tones to the wine. As a whole, GSM red wine is known for its full body, bright fruit flavors, leathery characteristics, and aromas of ripe fruit and dried herbs.

GSM wine pairs best with moderate to heavy dishes. Some GSM wine food pairing examples are fattier steaks such as a ribeye, any grilled or barbecued red meats, roasted chicken, mushrooms, or charcuterie. The wine also pairs well with meals including spices and herbs such as rosemary, sage, and red pepper.

We're happy to say we've featured some of the best California GSM wine that we could get our hands on! Some of these bottles happened to be picked for our Garagiste Wine Club, showcasing tiny-production, artisan wines from independent winemakers. However, it's also made a debut in our Gold and Platinum Wine Subscriptions too!