When you picture the ultimate tasting experience, what comes to mind? If you’re like many, you go straight for your favorite table wine: the trusty Merlot or Chardonnay that never fails to please. Maybe you stretch your boundaries with the occasional steward suggestion. These single-varietal wines certainly have their perks; they showcase distinct flavors and can provide an approachable option for learning about (and appreciating) fine wine. If, however, you limit your wine tasting to single-varietal options, you’re going to seriously miss out.
There’s something to be said for experimenting with blended wine. This adds multiple varieties to a single bottle, and to great effect. New layers appear, some subtle, some bold. By getting playful, you broaden your horizons. You’ll gain the excitement of a fresh varietal long after you’ve grown comfortable with your favorite table wines. Through blending, you just might discover a new take on the art and science of wine. You can also use the power of blending to add complexity to a youthful wine.
While many established winemakers are getting in on the blended wine trend, it’s also fun to explore at home. Use their creations as inspiration, but don’t be afraid to try blending on your own.
Learn About Varietals
The best cooks understand ingredients and spices. The same principle applies to blending wine. If you struggle to distinguish varietals and their properties, you’ll also struggle to determine their role in crafting your dream blend. You don’t need to abandon single-varietal wines in your quest for the ultimate blend. In fact, embracing traditional wine can actually improve your blended experience.
Start Simple
Experiment with small quantities of varietals you know well and enjoy frequently. Stick with just two wines to begin; as you get more comfortable, you can start experimenting with three or even four wines in each blend. Try blending wines you already know and love, sticking with sweet, for example, if you’re all about dessert wines or specific reds and whites that you return to time after time.
Take Notes
Document both failures and successes so you remember what worked well or what you’d prefer to avoid in the future. Equipped with a few simple notes, you’ll find it easier to recreate your best blends. You’ll also be inspired to make small changes that lead to even better results. Don’t think of this as homework; it’s more like a journal that helps you build on what you’ve learned so you can continue to confidently blend wines in the future.
Events such as the annual BlendFest in the Paso Robles Wine Country, which is halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, are weekend-long affairs where you can experience the finest blends and learn through tasting. You just might be surprised by what you discover as you mingle with dozens of winemakers, including the Riboli Family Wines.