Threefold GSM - a World 1st Gin Release!
As G&T weather gives way to red wine season, Threefold Distilling unveils their brand new GSM which combines the best of both worlds.
For GSM, Threefold has combined their multi-award-winning Aromatic Gin with Shiraz grapes from Kuitpo in the Adelaide Hills as well as Mourvèdre grapes from Sellicks Hill in McLaren Vale. As you may have figured out by now, “GSM” stands for Gin, Shiraz & Mourvèdre.
The debut 2021 vintage of GSM is set to be released on the Monday 24th of May (with the exception of their VIP mailing list who get early access to all new releases).
During the development phase for GSM, the distilling team personally picked grapes by hand, macerated and foot stomped to refine the blend. “We all love wine-based gins. We think it’s a really cool way that we can tie in what we do as distillers to another part of the industry that is so profound here in South Australia. Most distillers work with straight Shiraz so we wanted to create something unique for our first release, hence the inclusion of Mourvèdre to add another layer of complexity.” says co-distiller Aidan Shaw.
To make the final product, Threefold sought winemakers’ expertise to ensure their chosen grape varietals were at their prime. The grapes were first macerated in Aromatic Gin to extract their vibrant colours and rich tannins. The gin-soaked grapes were then removed from the spirit and pressed to extract the juice; which was used to dilute the gin, adding sweetness and intense flavour.
The team recommends serving their GSM with tonic, Bitter Lemon soda or in a signature GSM Sour.
About GSM
RRP: $80 for a 500mL bottle. 37.8% ABV. Only 500 bottles from this vintage will be available online. GSM is now available for pre-order here. The first deliveries are due in late May in time for World Gin Day in June.
Tasting Notes
With Aromatic Gin as the base, GSM has an underlying profile of citrus and juniper. The addition of Shiraz adds depth and Christmas spice, while the Mourvèdre adds juicy dark berry notes. Macerating on grape skins has resulted in a tannin-rich, viscous mouthfeel while the extracted juice makes this gin sweet and vibrant. Expect sour cherries, blackberries and a peppery spice to finish.
About Threefold Distilling
South Australia’s Threefold Distilling was founded in 2019 by three bartenders; Aidan Shaw (former manager of 2KW), Luke Fleming (bar manager at Paloma Bar & Pantry) and Steven Roennfeldt (Steve the Bartender). GSM is the very first vintage release from the label. It joins Threefold’s core range of gins – the original Aromatic Gin, Mediterranean Gin (both of which recently won gold at 2021 London Spirits Competition) and an Australian Lemoncello.