Bella Ridge Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2010 is a red wine blend from Australia, likely sourced from a warm-climate region such as the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale, known for producing bold and complex wines. This blend combines three key varieties: Grenache, Shiraz (Syrah), and Mourvèdre, which together create a rich, full-bodied wine with layers of flavor and complexity.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: The wine has a deep, dark ruby to garnet color, with hints of brick red at the rim due to its age. The color is indicative of a well-aged red wine, with depth and intensity.
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Aroma: On the nose, Bella Ridge Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2010 offers a complex bouquet of ripe dark fruits such as blackberry, black cherry, and plum. The Grenache contributes to the bright red fruit aromas, with strawberry and raspberry notes. The Shiraz adds spiciness, with hints of black pepper, clove, and some subtle oak influence, while the Mourvèdre brings earthy and savory qualities, often adding notes of leather, game, and dried herbs. As the wine has aged, secondary characteristics like tobacco, dried fruit, and a touch of smokiness may be present, adding depth and richness.
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Palate: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, with a smooth yet structured mouthfeel. The fruit is concentrated, with flavors of blackberries, dark cherries, and plums, balanced by the savory, spicy, and earthy notes from the Shiraz and Mourvèdre. The tannins are firm but rounded, providing structure while allowing the wine to feel smooth and integrated. There is a complexity to the wine, with nuances of leather, dried herbs, and a touch of mocha or chocolate from the oak aging. The acidity is well-balanced, contributing to the wine's freshness despite its age.
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Finish: The finish is long and persistent, with the dark fruit flavors lingering, along with earthy, herbal, and spicy notes. The wine’s well-integrated tannins and acidity provide a smooth, mouthwatering finish that invites another sip.
Aging Potential:
The 2010 vintage has had ample time to mature, and it is likely at or near its peak, offering a balance of youthful fruit and tertiary, aged complexity. The wine may still have some potential for further aging (another 2-4 years), but it is also in a prime window for drinking now, showcasing the depth and elegance that comes with bottle age.
Food Pairing:
Bella Ridge Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2010 is a versatile red wine that pairs well with a variety of hearty and flavorful dishes. It would complement grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb, beef, or pork, especially those with a savory or spiced rub. It is also excellent with barbecued meats, roasted game birds, or dishes featuring rich sauces like mushroom or red wine reductions. Aged cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese, would also make a great pairing, along with charcuterie or tapas-style appetizers.
Overall Style:
Bella Ridge Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre 2010 is a well-structured and complex wine that showcases the strengths of each grape variety in the blend. It is a great representation of a classic GSM (Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvèdre) blend, with a combination of rich fruit, spice, earthiness, and aging potential. This wine would appeal to those who enjoy bold, full-bodied reds with depth, complexity, and a smooth yet structured profile. Its balance of fruit, spice, and savory notes makes it a versatile wine for both casual drinking and pairing with a wide range of foods.
