David Finlayson: The Pepper Pot

This wine is called The Pepper Pot by David Finlayson, and is made with Syrah, 43% Mourvedre, Tannat, Cinsault, Grenache and Carignan grapes. The place of origin is South Africa and has a vintage year of 2018. This wine costs $14.95.

Tim Atkins gave this vintage a score of 90 and had this to say about it: "Great value from David Finlayson, this is (almost) the South African equivalent of a Cotes du Rhone blend, marrying Syrah with 43% Mourvedre, Tannat, Cinsault, Grenache and Carignan. Light, floral and spicy, with a hint of wood, red berry fruit and subtle reduction." 2020-23

 Because this is a blend of so many different types of grape, I will be referencing the section of Wine Folly for Rhone/GSM blends, on page 156. "GSM stands for Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre. These three grapes create the base of Southern France and Northern Spain's most important red wine blends." While this wine is from South Africa, I chose this entry because it was described as the South African equivalent of a GSM. "The GSM Blend is a versatile food pairing wine that works particularly well with dishes featuring Mediterranean spices including red pepper, sage, rosemary, and olives." It should be served in an oversized glass at 60-68*F, decanted for 30 mins and spend 5-15 years in the cellar.

 I did not have this wine with any food, as I had it at a tasting at Vintage Cellar. This wine smells spicy and of florals at the same time, and the nose reminded me of hydrangeas. It had a very tannic dryness with a strong peppercorn flavor with a slight taste of red fruit and berries at the front of the tongue. It was not sweet or acidic, and had a light body.

In conclusion, I give this wine a 4/10, although it was a very interesting wine to experience as it was my 'spiciest' tasting yet.