About GSM Blends
GSM blends combine Grenache’s red fruit, Shiraz’s bold spice, and Mourvèdre’s savoury depth, thriving in Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.
The Story of GSM in Australia
GSM—short for Grenache, Shiraz, and Mourvèdre—is one of Australia’s most beloved red wine blends. Inspired by the classic Rhône Valley blends of France, Australian winemakers have made GSM their own, crafting bold, fruit-driven wines with a perfect balance of power and finesse.
The blend became popular in the mid-20th century when winemakers in regions like Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale realised that Grenache, Shiraz, and Mourvèdre complement each other beautifully. Today, GSM blends are a staple of Australian red wine, showcasing the country’s exceptional terroir and winemaking skill.
What Makes a GSM Blend?
- Grenache – The backbone of the blend, bringing juicy red fruit, spice, and soft tannins.
- Shiraz – Adds body, dark fruit flavours, and peppery richness.
- Mourvèdre (Mataro) – Introduces earthy, savoury notes and structure, enhancing complexity and ageing potential.
Some Australian winemakers also include other varieties like Carignan, Cinsault, or even white grapes like Viognier to add aromatic lift and freshness.
Famous Regions for Australian GSM
- Barossa Valley – Produces powerful, fruit-driven GSM blends with deep concentration and structure.
- McLaren Vale – Known for its vibrant, expressive GSM wines, often with a smooth, approachable character.
- Clare Valley – Produces elegant GSM styles with bright acidity and floral notes.
- Great Southern – Emerging as a cool-climate contender for refined, balanced GSM blends.
What Does a GSM Blend Taste Like?
Australian GSM blends are rich and complex, offering a mix of red berries, plum, spice, and earthy undertones. Grenache brings soft, juicy fruit; Shiraz adds bold, dark fruit and pepper; and Mourvèdre contributes gamey, savoury depth. The result is a beautifully layered wine with great drinkability.
Winemaking Styles & New Trends
Winemakers are increasingly focusing on minimal intervention techniques to highlight the purity of the fruit and terroir. Some are using whole-bunch fermentation to enhance spice and texture, while others are ageing GSM in large-format oak barrels for a more refined, elegant style.
There’s also a growing trend of lighter, fresher GSM styles with lower alcohol, designed to be enjoyed young and even slightly chilled.
Similar Wines to Try
- Zinfandel – Shares GSM’s rich fruit and spice but often with higher alcohol.
- Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz blends – A great alternative for those who love bold, structured reds.
- Tempranillo – Offers a mix of savoury, earthy notes and juicy red fruit.
- Malbec – Known for its dark fruit and velvety tannins, similar to Shiraz-heavy GSM blends.
Recommended Australian GSM Wines
Looking for an exceptional Australian GSM blend? These wines perfectly showcase the harmony of Grenache, Shiraz, and Mourvèdre:
- Yangarra Estate Vineyard GSM – A biodynamic expression with incredible depth and structure.
- Teusner Albert Shiraz (GSM blend) – A bold, powerful blend with layers of rich fruit and spice.
Food Pairing with GSM Blends
GSM wines are incredibly food-friendly, pairing well with roasted meats, barbecued lamb, and slow-cooked stews. Their combination of fruit, spice, and savoury depth makes them a perfect match for charcuterie boards and Mediterranean dishes.
Explore Australian GSM Wines
At Wine Simple, we stock a handpicked selection of premium Australian GSM blends. Whether you love a bold, full-bodied style or a more elegant, refined expression, we’ve got a bottle for you.
Looking for the perfect GSM blend? Browse our selection here.