What is a GSM blend and why is it called a Rhone Blend? The G, S and M stand for Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre. The Rhone Valley is the original home of GSM blends and of course the reason why it is sometimes referred to as a Rhone Blend.

The Rhone Valley has two parts: the Northern Rhone Valley is known for its steep-sloping vineyards, where Syrah is produced. The Southern Rhone is a much larger region and lacks the steep slopes of the north. This is where the GSM blends are produced. Probably the most famous area in the Southern Rhone is Chateauneuf-du-Pape.

Wine Folly says these wines will have more red fruit flavors with notes of herbs. While, GSM blends from California or Australia will have darker fruits with notes of clove.

Tonight, we are enjoying two GSM Blended wines including:

1. 2019 Delas Freres Cotes du Rhone Saint-Esprit purchased at Costco for $13. It has delicate tannins which is unique for the Côtes-du-Rhône appellation. The nose is classic syrah, with berry fruit, violet and licorice.
2. 2018 Skylark Wine Company Red Belly Rhone Blend. This wine was purchased from Wine Styles for $17. It is juicy and creamy black fruits plum, blackberry and crushed cherry fruit coat the entire palate, with intricately woven tannins.

We scored both wines a 3 out of 5. Denise would buy both again. I would pass on both.

Next week we will explore the differences between Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Chenin Blanc.