# The Smuggler's Boot GSM Blend (2018)

- **Producer:** Richard Kershaw Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, black cherry, raspberry, liquorice, red cherry, black pepper, redcurrant

## About this wine

The Richard Kershaw Wines Smuggler's Boot GSM Blend 2018 is a red wine from the Western Cape, South Africa, composed of 50% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, and 20% Syrah. Richard Kershaw, a Master of Wine, founded his eponymous winery with a philosophy of clonal precision and site-specific, cool-climate winemaking. This particular blend highlights the expression of its varied vineyard sources within the Western Cape, including Wellington, Swartland, and Stellenbosch, with a focus on achieving fresh, natural acidity. The 2018 vintage is noted for its lively acidity. The wine's name, 'Smuggler's Boot', adds an element of intrigue to its identity.

## Interesting facts

- Richard Kershaw is the only Master of Wine in South Africa dedicated to winemaking.
- The wine's name, 'Smuggler's Boot', hints at a hidden story, though its origin isn't detailed.
- Grapes are sourced from three distinct regions within the Western Cape.
- The 2018 vintage earned a Silver award at the IWSC.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and lively acidity make it versatile. Its fruit-forward character can complement richer dishes without overpowering them, while the acidity helps to cut through fat and cleanse the palate. The subtle spice notes often found in GSM blends can harmonize with aromatic dishes.

## Wine making process

The Smuggler's Boot GSM Blend is produced using an unoaked winemaking technique, with a deliberate focus on sourcing grapes from vineyards that offer a balance of warmth and cool nights to preserve natural acidity. The blend comprises Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah, with specific clonal selections potentially playing a role in the final profile. The wine undergoes aging without oak, allowing the varietal and regional characteristics to be expressed directly. This approach aligns with Richard Kershaw's broader philosophy of site-specific, cool-climate winemaking.