LeGrand Noir GSM 2008

By CHRIS and SHERRY HARDIE

If you enjoy red blends, GSM are three letters you need to remember. GSMs are wines blended with grenache, shiraz and mourvedre grapes.

This wine comes from the Minervois region of France, which is on the southern end of the country and enjoys a mild Mediterranean

climate. The grenache(60 percent) and mourvedre (5 percent) are usually found in blends, and the shiraz (35 percent) adds some spice.

We've enjoyed other Le Grand labels (known for the black sheep) and find this one to be delightful as well, with plenty of red berry fruit flavors and a very smooth finish. We're eager to try more GSM wines.

Sherry: "Big floral notes, flavors of raspberry and red licorice." 3-1/2 stars

Chris: "A raisin bouquet with raspberry and blackberry flavors." 3-1/2 stars

Available locally for about $8.

Coming next week: Domaine Ste. Michelle Blanc de Blancs