MYSTERY GEM | BAROSSA VALLEY, GSM 2023
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- $21.99
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Set in the rugged heart of the Moppa district in Barossa Valley, Gardens of Moppa GSM 2023 is a true expression of the place Arila Gardens calls home. Fruit is sourced from two “gardens” on Moppa Road and Moppa Springs Road—sites sitting around 300m elevation with sand and rock soils (quartz and ironstone) over clay, and a remarkable mix of vine ages including blocks up to 130 years old. The 2023 Barossa vintage was the latest picking season this millennium, shaped by plentiful winter and spring rains and mild temperatures that delayed veraison and encouraged long, even ripening. A dry, moderate summer with few heat spikes meant the grapes were harvested slowly through the cooler months, building fragrance, personality, and natural balance.
This Grenache-led GSM Grenache 49%, Shiraz 47%, Mataro 4% brings together the best of Moppa’s distinctive varietal character, crafted with a gentle touch to let the vineyards speak. The wine was fermented as whole berries in small open-top ferments for 8–10 days, with gentle pump-overs and hand plunging, including 10% whole bunch in the Grenache ferment to lift aromatic complexity and structure. It was then matured for 14 months in seasoned French oak hogsheads, building texture and depth without overpowering the fruit.
Bold yet composed, this is a Moppa GSM built for both immediate enjoyment and time in cellar fragrant, regionally grounded, and quietly powerful. It’s a natural match for slow-cooked lamb, charcoal-grilled meats, or earthy Mediterranean vegetables, where the wine’s savoury Barossa edges and supple structure can really shine. Drink now or cellar confidently for 5+ years, with the best rewards over 10+.
This Grenache-led GSM Grenache 49%, Shiraz 47%, Mataro 4% brings together the best of Moppa’s distinctive varietal character, crafted with a gentle touch to let the vineyards speak. The wine was fermented as whole berries in small open-top ferments for 8–10 days, with gentle pump-overs and hand plunging, including 10% whole bunch in the Grenache ferment to lift aromatic complexity and structure. It was then matured for 14 months in seasoned French oak hogsheads, building texture and depth without overpowering the fruit.
95 points Sam Kim, WineOrbit, May 2025
"Rich and complex, the wine shows dark plum, cherry, game, mixed spice, and roasted hazelnut aromas on the nose. The palate displays excellent weight and supple mouthfeel, splendidly supported by layers of polished tannins, making it mouth-filling and structured with a persistent, satisfying finish. At its best: now to 2035."
94 points Steve Leszczynski, Q Wine, March 2025
"There is no disputing the aromatic delight that this Moppa GSM from Arila Gardens exudes. Another impressive release, I'm just going to be over here adoring its prettiness.
Grown at 300 metres above sea level on a mix of ironstone and quartz soils, the vine material contributing to this blend is up to 130 years of age.
From the latest picked Barossa vintage for some time due to plenty of rain in autumn and spring from the previous year, veraison was delayed until February.
Fermented separately before blending (49/47/4), 10% whole bunches were used in the Grenache component."
Submerge yourself in aromas of violets, red petals, blueberry tea and herbal tea, cola, pan juices a little char. Dangerously smooth to taste, dark chocolate, raspberries, squishy blueberries and mulberries continue to impress, but the attractive mouth perfume has me sitting upright. Sandy and dusty tannins dry out ever so slowly on a long finish that is highlighted by barbecue and peppery spices. Mighty fine drinking, you won't walk away disappointed.
Drink to eight years."
93 points Ken Gargett, Winepilot, May 2025
"The fruit for this gem is sourced from two Barossa vineyards, not surprisingly from the Moppa sub-region in the Barossa Valley. Some of the vines date back 130 years. The split is 49% Grenache (10% of which was whole bunch fermented), 47% Shiraz and 4% Mataro. The wine spent fourteen months maturing in older French oak hogsheads. Purple red in colour, the nose offers notes of plums, chocolate, cassis, cherries, dried herbs and cocoa powder. The alluring nose moves on to a seductive palate with a silky texture, fine balance, medium length and good length. The palate sees the emergence of more cherry notes and some warm earth. Enjoy this now and for the next half dozen years."