WTN: Barossa Valley Estate 2020 Barossa Valley "GSM"

[Robin Garr]

I've been on sort of a self-imposed fast from Australian reds for years now, frustrated by the predominance of spoofy, Parkerized bottles that seem to dominate the US market. I decided to try a couple recently, though, and either I've mellowed or Parker's retirement has reshaped the export market. Other than the likely climate-driven 14.5% alcohol level, I thought this item from Barossa Valley Estate was very good, and a good value too.

Barossa Valley Estate 2020 Barossa Valley "GSM" ($12.99)

A blend of 42% Grenache, 30% Shiraz, and 28% Mourvèdre ("GSM") that's Australia's nod to France's Southern Rhône Valley reds, this impressive value from Barossa Valley Estate is a dark reddish-purple color with a reddish edge. Ripe, appetizing strawberry and raspberry aromas show first, with hints of pomegranate and red plum peeking through. It's dry and a bit hot on the palate – we can thank its 14.5% alcohol for that – and a very light chill might help. It's a minor complaint in a structured, acidic flavor that follows the nose and adds spice from subtle, not overwhelming French oak. U.S. importer: Delegat USA Inc., San Francisco. (July 27, 2023)

FOOD MATCH:
This hearty red wine invites a match with beef or game or flavorful cheeses. It was good for a caprese pasta for us but probably would have been even happier with more hearty fare.

WHEN TO DRINK:
The winery says this wine is made to enjoy upon release but will also reward further cellaring. I wouldn't sock it away for a decade or more, but three to five years in a good cellar might be worth a try.

VALUE:
It's a very good value at Wine-Searcher.com's $14 average U.S. retail,; prices under $10 at a few vendors might justify a bargain hunt.

WEB LINK:
Here's the winery's tech sheet on the 2021 vintage, which shouldn't be far out of line with this 2020.

FIND THIS WINE ONLINE:
Check prices and find vendors for Barossa Valley Estate "GSM" on Wine-Searcher.com.

Follow this Wine-Searcher link to read more about Barossa Valley find listings for dozens of other wines from the region.

You'll find more information about Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre blends at this Wine-Searcher link.

[Jenise]

Sounds quite decent! 14.5% is certainly low/modest for Barossa reds.

14.5% is certainly low/modest for Barossa reds.

Wow. Is that a global warming thing, or has it always been that way?

[Robin Garr]

14.5% is certainly low/modest for Barossa reds.

Wow. Is that a global warming thing, or has it always been that way?

I visited Barossa in 2000 and 2003, and the wines they were most proud of were balanced and dlegant. Not all of those were exported, though. As for warming, I was there in November and it was over 40ºC in Adelaide.