Last Updated on October 4, 2023
Wine, known as “the drink of the Gods”, has been a favored drink of choice in the Mediterranean and the ancient Near East. Considered a symbol of immortality and divinity, it’s still loved by people all over the world. Some of them are willing to participate in a fine wine auction to make sure their purchase is exquisite. Some may join the best wine club they know, so they get a shipment of new bottles on regular basis. You may be surprised, however, when you learn that some wines are actually a blend. When you open a bottle of wine with a perfectly balanced flavor, that’s when true wine making skills shine through. Keep on reading to learn about the world’s most famous red wine blends.
Bordeaux
This medium to full-bodied French wine blend is known for its delicious notes of black currant, plum, smoke, graphite, and tobacco. Over 86% of red Bordeaux wines are made with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Petit Verdot and Malbec can also be added to the mix.
Chianti
Chianti from Tuscany is one of Italy’s most popular blends. It’s a medium-bodied wine known for its black cherry flavor with a hint of vanilla, leather, and tomato. It can be made entirely of Sangiovese, but can also contain up to 30 percent of other blends. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc can contribute to no more than 15 percent of this famous blend.
Rioja
Rioja is a Spanish blend of several wines made from different grape varieties. The base is Tempranillo (up to 70 percent), contributing to the satisfying flavors of strawberry and cream. Other varieties add different flavors. In the blend go Mazuelo and Graciano, the white grape Macabeo is also permitted.
If you’re not familiar with wine blends and have trouble choosing the perfect bottle, a named wine can help you with your selection. However, if you want to learn more and truly appreciate this drink of the Gods at home, look behind the front label. You’ll be surprised where your blend can take you!