Sorry, but I am going out on a limb here and say that, as much as acronyms are a common thing these days, and shortened wine names such as ‘GSM’ will always be a part of the vernacular in Australian wine circles, some wine blends should not be reduced to an acronym. Just my opinion of course, but I think Mélange Traditional Blanc suits this wine perfectly. Apart from being the perfect indicator of the class of this wine, I think it looks so much better on the label too (a minor thing I know). Okay, so one of the reasons may be because my late mum was a huge fan when she knew it as its previous identity. However, the wording of the wine takes nothing away from what is behind the glass receptacle that houses this lovely blend.
Region: Yarra Valley, Vic Price: $80 Source: Sample thanks kindly to Levantine Hill
Although dominated by Sauvignon Blanc (81%), the Semillon (18%) and Muscadelle (1% and to a lesser extent) let you know they play a part in the complexities of this wine. Yes, the intense aromas tell you it is mainly SB but they have you contemplating the supporting varieties in a way that causes your head to nod and your instinct to try it. Goodness me! The palate! This is the place people come with elevated expectations regardless of a wine and ‘disappointment’ is not a noun that will be used when it comes to this blend, or this wine, that’s for sure. It is very far from that. Texturally pleasing, richly varietal, beautifully balanced and great length too. It needs to be in yours, and my cellar.
Words from a Wine Glass 