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The Tenebres GSM 2022 is a $6.99 Trader Joe’s import wine, in 2019 it sold for $5.99, and in Canada, it is priced at $19.50. It is designated an IGP. Pay d’Oc wine, Pays d”Oc indicates that this wine is sourced from the Languedoc Roussillon Wine region of southwest France.
The Languedoc Roussillon region is the largest French wine region that specializes in value-priced wines and IGP/Pays d’Oc wines are common as opposed to AOC wines.
As a GSM wine, the blend is Grenache (33%), Syrah (33%), and Mourvedre (33%). This is one of the two great Red blends from France, the first is the Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc with two additional grapes in smaller percentages. The GSM blend is best known in Chatueaunuaf-du-pape wines of the Southern Rhone Valley.
The Tenebres GSM 2022 is from the Languedoc, not the Rhone so there should be some differences. We last reviewed in the 2019 vintage and were impressed with how they could produce such a tasty $5.99 wine.
The Tenebres is a dollar more in 2024, but I expect it to remain a first-class value. The alcohol content is 13%.
Grenache is a sleek, dark, tight grape, Syrah can be plush and spicey, while Mourvedre adds a complementary flavor.
The Tenebres GSM 2022 Tasting Notes
The color is black cherry with serious black highlights. The nose is extracted ripe red berries, licorice, candy spice, plum, cherry cough syrup, and violets. The Tenebres GSM 2022 is soft and smooth on the palate with ripe juicy flavors.
This GSM tastes like cherry jam, but not so sweet, a hit of black pepper, raspberry, and plum. The mid-palate offers dried strawberry, cranberry, light herbs, and blueberry.
The tannins are smooth and do not bite, and the acidity is balanced and performs well.
The Summary
- The Tenebres GSM 2022 brings a delicious taste of France for seven bucks.
- It does not remind me of the Southern Rhone Valley, but it is gratifying, a Chateuanuef-du Pape can sell for $60 and up.
- Another how can they make it in France, ship it to the US, and then to Trader Joe’s stores for such a low price.
