One of my local friends says she loves the Hahn GSM, which she buys at our local market, Andronico’s. We like Hahn wines and featured their SLH Pinot Noir in my Fall 2019 Northern Virginia AWS class. While we tend to avoid the widely-marketed, mass-produced wines, I wanted to give this one a try. This is another Central Coast-designated wine.
From www.hahnwines.com : “Our founder, Nicky Hahn, grew up speaking German. In his native language, the word ‘Hahn’ means rooster, which is why a depiction of this bird has always graced the label of our Hahn wines. From the beginning, Nicky strove to produce exceptional varietal wines from Monterey County where Hahn’s vineyards and winery are located. (My note: The Hahns played a key role in getting the SLH AVA established in 1991.)
“This assemblage of classically-styled varietal wines—along with our GSM Rhone-inspired blend—are now under the care of second-generation vintner Philip Hahn, who proudly carries on his father’s legacy. Vintage after vintage, we style our Hahn wines to be fruit-forward, balanced and supple. Our vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands and Arroyo Seco AVAs are a significant source of fruit for these wines.”
Hahn 2018 GSM, Central Coast, 14.5% ABV, $15* (#43)
About the GSM from Hahn Wines: “Inspired by the Rhône blends of Southern France, our GSM combines the character of each component into rich layers of flavors and textures. Bright, fruity Grenache grown in Arroyo Seco contributes raspberry, strawberry and cherry flavors, while Syrah from the Santa Lucia Highlands lends color, tannins and hints of blueberry and black pepper. A small amount of Mourvèdre contributes richness to the mid-palate and lengthens the dry finish.”
Winemaker’s Notes (same link above): “Enticing aromas of strawberry, black cherry, white pepper and cinnamon. On the palate, notes of raspberry, a hint of cinnamon spice, along with strawberry and black cherry. Finishing with a smooth and luscious mouthfeel.”
Wine Enthusiast Review – 90 Points and #43 of Top 100 Best Buys in 2020: “Aromas of dark red berry and crumpled hibiscus make for a delicious entry to the nose of this blend of 69% Grenache, 29% Syrah and 2% Mourvèdre. The palate is lively in acidity and texturally engaging, carrying flavors of dark berry, licorice and star anise.” Matt Kettmann, 11/2020
My Review: Deep red in color, with a mellow berry and currant on the nose. Smooth cherry and cedar on the palate, with a slightly leathery, tobacco finish. This opened up to be a very drinkable and enjoyable wine. It is such a great value and taste – hard to believe such a great wine came from my grocery store.
I purchased this for $11 at Andronico’s. You can find some Hahn wines at Pearson’s in Washington DC.
Hahn Tasting Rooms are located a their estate in the Santa Lucia Highlands, as well as in Carmel Plaza. They are open by reservation only – you can find more information here.
*Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.
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