Saturday, March 13, 2010

Hewitson Miss Harry Barossa Valley GSM, 2007

The last time I had this wine (the 2005 vintage), I thought it was a bit tannic and backward for a Grenache-based wine. In this 2007, the Grenache is smiling and friendly. As before, the color is a deep crimson, and the aromas and flavors are upfront and fruity with cherries, red berries and spice. It's big bodied with substantial presence but the sleek fruit is the highlight--very Burgundian. It's very ripe, almost sweet, but the alcohol level is only 13.5%. On the second night, the tannins are more noticeable, so I like the potential for this wine.

This GSM is a blend of Grenache (54%), Syrah (40%) and Mourvedre (6%). The grapes come from low-yielding old vines and the wine is matured in large seasoned barrels--true to the Southern Rhone tradition. This vintage of Miss Harry reminds me more of a good Gigondas than a Chateauneuf du Pape.

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