GSM stands for Grenache, Shiraz, and Mourvedre - a classic blend originating from France's Rhone Valley that has found exceptional expression in Australian regions like McLaren Vale. This combination works brilliantly because each varietal contributes distinct characteristics: Grenache provides bright red fruit and elegance, Shiraz adds body and spice, while Mourvedre contributes structure and earthy complexity. The magic happens when skilled winemakers like Henry's Drive balance these components to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

McLaren Vale's Mediterranean climate and diverse soils create ideal conditions for Rhone varietals like those in GSM blends. The region's warm days and cool sea breezes from the nearby Gulf St Vincent help maintain acidity while allowing full flavour development. The ancient geological formations, including ironstone and sand over clay, provide excellent drainage and stress the vines just enough to concentrate flavours - explaining why this Henry's Drive blend achieves such rich cocoa and red fruit intensity.

Serve this GSM at cellar temperature (16-18°C) to best appreciate its complex aromatics of chocolate and nuts. Given its plush, approachable nature and cocoa nib profile, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, aged cheeses, or rich pasta dishes with mushroom or tomato-based sauces. The wine's cigar box notes and full body make it perfect for leisurely evening drinking, and its balanced structure means it can handle bold flavours without being overwhelmed.

A 95-point rating from Wine Orbit places this GSM in exceptional company, indicating outstanding quality that significantly exceeds expectations for its price point. Wine Orbit's rigorous tasting methodology focuses on balance, complexity, and regional expression - all qualities clearly evident in this blend's seamless integration of varietals and distinctive McLaren Vale character. The additional Five Stars rating reinforces that this represents exceptional value, suggesting the wine punches well above its weight class.

The 2020 vintage is drinking beautifully now, with the tasting notes describing it as 'uber-friendly' and 'easy-going' - classic indicators of a wine in its prime drinking window. However, quality GSM blends like this Henry's Drive bottling typically have excellent cellaring potential due to their structured tannins and balanced acidity. You can enjoy it immediately for its plush fruit and chocolate characteristics, or cellar it for 5-8 years to develop more complex tertiary flavours and integrated tannins.