Drop Of The Week
Blending Is Good
There’s a perception that wines which are blended, that is a bringing together different varieties, are inferior to a single variety on its own. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Wines have been blended for centuries and there are varying reasons for this. The most common is to deliver a wine which delivers harmoniously, and to use as phrase, the sum of the whole is greater than the individual parts.
When you spot a blend, the varieties are listed from greatest percentage to least. For example, a Cabernet Merlot blend would have a higher percentage of Cabernet than Merlot. In Australia, percentages of less than 15% do not have to be stated on the label. Some wineries choose to state all whilst others prefer to keep you in the dark. In the Cabernet Merlot example, there’s nothing to suggest one or two more varieties have been added to beef up the wine yet remain anonymous. One such blend which has miniscule additions is the Shiraz Viognier blend. Although a white variety, Viognier adds a florally component and generally only up to 5% is used. Some wineries proudly state Viognier on the label yet others choose not to reveal it.
One of my favourite blends is the traditional Rhone style GSM or Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre. Though this blend may change its appearance depending on the producer to GMS or SMG, each component pulls its weight to deliver some great wines. The Grenache component adds the juicy yum factor with raspberries and strawberries, Shiraz gives structure and depth with Mourvedre throwing in some tannins and rustic features. Together they hum a delicious tune.
Here’s a couple of GSM’s worth keeping an eye out for.
There’s lots to like about the new Rosemount Estate MV Collection GSM ($24) label. Picture tearing into a punnet of raspberries under the shade of a tree beside a dusty country road. Some fruit sweetness in the mix, the delivery is full and delicious with generous fruit filling the mouth. Throw in some earth and a dash of spice wrapping up with a warming super long and soft finish. Great drinking indeed and I'm confident you'll be smiling. Available from Dan Murphy's and BWS stores.
From a little Barossa producer, this Schild Estate GMS 2012 ($15) is serious bang for buck stuff. A very attractive wine to stick your nose in, think dried florals and strawberry coulis. Flavours are persistent and delicious highlighted by red fruits and raspberry lollies. There's a sprinkle of peppery spice to finish. Two things struck me particularly, the freshness of the fruit and simple fact there is no oak in sight. That’s right, no oak was used in producing this; it’s fruit city! An impressive drop made even more fabulous by the asking price. Find it at Champion Liquor outlets.
by Steve from Qwine
