This is such a lovely, elegant expression of a Côtes du Rhône Grenache blend that is complete with lovely strawberry notes, a lick of black olive and graphite, and a pretty serious, grown-up set of tannins. Staggering value!

Origin: Southern Rhône, France. Mainly Grown In: Southern France, South Australia, west coast USA. Key Facts: Grenache has a curious way of making a great team captain when it comes to blends. Who can resist the confident red fruity flavours and spice it brings to the game! Though it’s most recognised for its contribution to the GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) blend, it’s no surprise that adventurous Aussies decided to play with the classic mix and have some real fun. Here, Grenache leads the palate with loads of spice and vibrant red fruit flavours. Shiraz brings juiciness and earthy florals, and Mourvèdre finishes the blend with a savoury, sometimes meaty character and tannin. The final wine is a balance of the best parts of all three, which usually means a round medium-bodied mouthful of juicy flavours, violet and lingering savoury spices. Fun Fact: A Pope (Clement V in case you're the curious type) loved this blend so much that the most iconic GSM making region is called Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which means the ‘Pope’s New Castle’. You better believe there was a lot of GSM flowing here.