There is such a diversity of wines – ranging from the complex, sensuous and wondrous to the ordinary, bland, and disappointing– and for some, wine selection can sometimes be challenging. Whether your palate has barely developed beyond Sweet Tarts and you’re not quite sure how to navigate the intricate circus of wine, or your cellar is bursting with wines that eagerly await to be opened, all of us at Jessup Cellars want to help. Wines are much more common as varietal blends than not, so let’s talk about how to pick the ones best suited for your palate.
Beyond the Single Grape: The Allure of Red Blends
Red blends are a romance of two or more red grape varietals blended in a symphony of complementary flavors. Similar to chefs who carefully select their ingredients and measure judiciously for a dish, winemakers curate a flavor profile of complementary components that will harmonize in creating a sum greater than its parts.
Here are some important tips to help you as you venture in search of a great red blend:
- Know Your Palate: First, learn what you like. Are the bold, stout reds your cup of tea or do you prefer fruit-forward, lighter-bodied styles? If you know which direction your palate leans, you’ve already jumped a few steps. Most red blends range from the juicy, fruit-forward to the full-bodied, spicy and savory.
- The Grapes: It’s useful to know some basics about the varietals typically grown in a given wine region. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most planted varieties in the world and a flagship of Bordeaux, where many varietals grown in Napa Valley originate from. They are often full-bodied, dry, tannic wines with a robust structure with complex and intense aromas and flavors. Merlot, usually blended with Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc can add a softer mouthfeel, while Cabernet Franc brings herbal, vegetal aromas of mint, pepper and greenness, adding further complexity to a red blend. Syrah and Grenache are two other common varietals incorporated in red blends.
- Explore by Region: Climate and soil composition play a significant role in how grapes develop their flavors. Napa Valley is a world-renowned region known for its diverse microclimates and well-draining soils. Many classic Napa Valley red blends are Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant, but they often incorporate Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and sometimes even small amounts of Malbec or Petit Verdot. The specific percentages used will vary depending on the winery and the vintage, but these grapes, grown in the unique conditions of Napa Valley, come together to create truly special blends invocative of the location.
Beyond the Bottle: Pairing Great Red Blend Wines
Another excellent quality of great red blend wines is food-friendliness. Unlike many single-varietal wines, red blends can be made to be more accessible with or without food. Here’s how:
- Lighter-Bodied Blends: Made with higher proportions of Merlot or Pinot Noir, these blends go with lightly seasoned foods, such as grilled pizzas, pasta sauce with tomato, some fish dishes, and charcuterie chargers.
- Full-bodied blends: Often dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah grapes, these wines can handle more aggressive flavors. Pair them with grilled steaks, hearty stews, or rich pasta with creamy sauces.
- Courage: there is undiscovered treasure ahead! Experiment with red blends. Because red blends are so varied, enjoy trying different ones with different percentages of each grape. Take note of the varietal makeup and try them with different foods to find your favorites.
Jessup Cellars: Your Guide to Great Red Blend Wines
Our team at Jessup Cellars is passionate about crafting stellar red blends that showcase the unique terroir.
So, whether it’s a special go-to for your next dinner party, or if you are eager to explore more interesting options in your favorite red wine style, exploring the variety of blends that exist will you learn about your palate and speak more confidently on your tastes. Investigating unique grape combinations and varietals is fun! Those of us at Jessup Cellars celebrate the Art of the Blend and we are here to help you on your journey of learning about the worldwide delicacies of great red blend wines.