Wines made from the classic grape varietals found in France’s southern Rhône region – Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre – are often referred to as GSM. The Côtes du Rhône region of France is best known for the blend, along with Australia and the West Coast of the United States, including Oregon. One of the most popular blends in the world, GSM typically originates in warm growing regions.
All GSMs Aren’t the Same
While the same three varietals – Grenache, Syrah and Mourvédre – comprise the wine, it can vary significantly around the world, influenced by grape sourcing, terroir and winemaking choices, such as the percentage of each grape used in the blend. Since 1937 a patchwork of local laws in the Rhône region have dictated the grape composition of its red blends. Up to 19 different varietals can go into a red blend from the Côtes du Rhône. Grenache must be most prominent, followed by Syrah and Mourvèdre. Precise percentages may vary per strict regulations.
In Oregon, winemakers have more discretion. King Estate’s 2018 GSM is 40% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 20% Mourvèdre, sourced from two Oregon vineyards in different corners of the state: Grenache from Crater View Vineyard in the Rogue Valley; and Syrah and Mourvèdre from Seven Hills Winery, a founding estate of the Walla Walla AVA in northeast Oregon.
Three Grapes. One Wine.
Each grape brings its own special characteristics to the blend.
Grenache brings the fruit. A lighter to medium-bodied Rhône varietal, the grape boasts high-toned red fruit like strawberries and raspberries with subtle spicy notes. This fruit was sourced from the Rogue Valley, a warmer climate than ours and ideal for Rhone varieties.
Syrah brings rich, bold, dark fruit flavors of blueberry and plum. On the savory side, Syrah boasts a muscular structure and nice tannins. The fruit is sourced from the Oregon side of the Walla Walla AVA, which has earned a great reputation for Syrah.
Mourvèdre brings the smoky, earthen, savory flavors with gamy notes. Also from Walla Walla, the grape adds depth, tannin structure, and a dark, rich color to the blend.
This varietal combination delivers wines with jammy, dark fruit character and elegant complexity. GSM is versatile and pairs well with richer foods such as ribeye, smoked meats, roasted chicken and stews. Or try dishes featuring Mediterranean spices including red pepper, sage, rosemary and olives. Our 2018 GSM earned 92 points from Wine Enthusiast with only 100 cases produced. To purchase visit our shop.
