Alkina Old Quarter GSM 2023 (1pk)

GSM stands for Grenache, Syrah (Shiraz), and Mourvèdre - a classic Mediterranean blend that originated in France's Rhône Valley. This combination works brilliantly because each grape brings something unique: Grenache provides juicy red fruit and elegance, Shiraz adds structure and spice, while Mourvèdre contributes earthy complexity and tannin backbone. The Barossa Valley's warm climate and diverse soils make it ideal for this blend, allowing each variety to ripen perfectly while maintaining the balance that makes GSM so food-friendly and age-worthy.

Concrete ageing is a game-changer for this GSM, providing the mineral backbone mentioned in the tasting notes without the vanilla or toast flavours you'd get from oak barrels. Concrete allows gentle micro-oxygenation while maintaining the wine's pure fruit expression, which is why critics are praising its focused and refined character. The material's neutral nature lets the Barossa terroir shine through, while its thermal mass provides stable temperature conditions that help develop those fine, chalky tannins that make this wine so elegant.

The 2023 vintage in the Barossa has been recognised as exceptional, earning this wine a 'Killer Vintage' designation alongside its impressive 96-point scores. Cool, wet winter conditions followed by a warm, dry growing season created ideal ripening conditions that allowed for extended hang time without excessive alcohol levels. This weather pattern helped preserve the natural acidity and develop complex flavour compounds, resulting in wines with both power and elegance - exactly what you're seeing in this medium-to-full-bodied GSM that manages to be intense without being heavy.

Critics are awarding 95-96 point scores because this GSM represents a new style of Barossa winemaking that balances power with finesse. The wine's inclusion at #88 in James Suckling's Top 100 Australian Wines of 2025 reflects its exceptional quality and the growing recognition of GSM blends. What's impressing judges is the wine's ability to showcase classic Barossa intensity while maintaining elegance and drinkability - it's the kind of wine that proves the region can produce sophisticated, terroir-driven wines alongside its famous blockbuster Shiraz.

This GSM is beautifully balanced for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring, giving you flexibility based on your preference. Drinking it now reveals vibrant dark berry and rhubarb flavours with that lovely floral lift, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or hearty Mediterranean dishes. However, cellaring for 5-8 years will reward patience as the tannins integrate further and secondary flavours develop, particularly those earthy, spice notes that GSM blends are famous for. The wine's structure and acidity suggest it will age gracefully, developing more complexity while maintaining its core fruit character.