11/28/06 Zin Blending

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran and today we are going to expand a question we answered yesterday about blending wine. Today we are going to look at one wineries blend and just what each of the grapes contributes to the blend. I was asked recently why there are so many blended wines on the market. First, blending is a process where different wines are combined in varying proportions to create an interesting well-balanced wine that is appealing and reflects the style of the winery. Much like a Chef, a winemaker is combining ingredients (the different wines) each with unique flavor profiles, each contributing differing flavors or textures  to create the flavors the winemaker is seeking. For example, I was recently involved in a blending seminar put on by the famous Zinfandel producer Ravenswood. We are making a Zinfandel wine and although the Zin by itself was just fine it was even better once a little of this and a little of that were added. This and that were wines made from Petite Sirah and Carignan. In the case of Petite Sirah, it was body and structure, which enhanced the mouth feel. In the case of the Carignan its' saturated color and bright acidity were a pleasant boost to the wine. Although the Zin alone was good, the blending made it stellar! Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at vine to wine dot net and thank you for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.