# Belles Vignes GSM (2023)

- **Producer:** Les Grands Chais de France
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Syrah, Marselan
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €7
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, blackcurrant, ripe blackberry

## About this wine

The Belles Vignes GSM is a red wine from Les Grands Chais de France (GCF), a prominent French winemaker established in 1979. This blend utilizes Grenache, Syrah, and Marselan grapes, originating from the Languedoc-Roussillon region, known for its Mediterranean climate. The 'Belles Vignes' range is crafted to embody French winemaking traditions, with winemaker Bertrand Praz selecting varietals from French vineyards. The wine's production emphasizes preserving its natural fruit character.

## Interesting facts

- Marselan, one of the grapes, is a relatively new crossing developed in France in the 1960s.
- GCF is one of the largest exporters of French wine globally.
- The 'Belles Vignes' range aims to express French winemaking traditions.
- This wine is intentionally not aged in oak to highlight its fruit.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and fruit-forward profile make it a versatile partner for richer dishes. Its structure can stand up to grilled meats and stews, while its fruit notes can complement savory sauces. The tannins in the blend offer a good counterpoint to the richness of proteins.

## Wine making process

The Belles Vignes GSM undergoes a traditional winemaking process. Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and then destemmed. Maceration, involving contact between the grape skins and juice, lasts for three weeks and is conducted with selected yeasts under controlled temperatures. To preserve the wine's primary fruit character, it is not aged in oak barrels. The wine is produced and packaged in France.