GSM 2018 – Black Market Deal #51965

This 2018 GSM showcases the classic Barossa trinity of grenache, mataro, and shiraz working in perfect harmony. The grenache provides savoury earthiness and spice, while mataro adds flesh and deeper, more complex flavours. Shiraz acts as the backbone, delivering structure and tannins that bind everything together. This traditional blend represents centuries of winemaking wisdom, creating what the French call a 'marriage' of varietals rather than just a mix.

This GSM is drinking beautifully now but has the structure to evolve until 2027. The shiraz component provides the tannin backbone for ageing, while the grenache and mataro will develop more complex secondary flavours over time. If you enjoy fruit-forward wines, drink it now for those vibrant berry notes. For those who prefer more developed, earthy characteristics, cellaring for 2-4 more years will reward patience with greater complexity.

The wine's rich, full-bodied nature and berry fruit profile make it incredibly food-friendly. The savoury grenache component loves Mediterranean flavours like the suggested carbonara or pizza, while the mataro's depth complements richer meats. The zesty duck salad pairing is particularly clever - the wine's fruit balances the richness of duck, while its structure cuts through any fatty elements. Think bold flavours that won't be overwhelmed by this wine's intensity.

The Barossa's warm, dry climate and ancient soils create ideal conditions for these Mediterranean varietals to thrive. Grenache loves the heat and develops its characteristic spicy, savoury notes, while mataro (mourvèdre) needs warmth to fully ripen and show its best qualities. Shiraz, practically synonymous with Barossa, adds the regional signature of power and structure. This terroir has been perfecting GSM blends for generations, making it Australia's answer to France's Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

These berry flavours indicate a wine with excellent fruit concentration and balance between the three varietals. Blueberry notes often come from the shiraz component, suggesting ripe, well-extracted fruit. Raspberry typically reflects the grenache's bright, fresh character, while redcurrant hints at the mataro's contribution of tart, complex berry flavours. Together, they create a spectrum from bright and fresh to deep and concentrated, showing this blend has both immediate appeal and underlying complexity.