Wine Blend
A wine blend is a wine made by combining two or more grape varieties, vintages, or vineyard sources, which may be labeled with a proprietary name or listed varietal composition rather than a single varietal designation.
In Plain English
A wine blend combines multiple grape varieties to create a wine that (ideally) is greater than the sum of its parts. If a wine does not meet the 75% minimum to claim a single varietal, it is technically a blend. Famous blending traditions include Bordeaux-style blends (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc), Rhône-style blends (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre), and Italian-style Super Tuscan blends. Blended wines are often given proprietary names rather than varietal designations. Many premium and ultra-premium wines are blends, though the term sometimes carries an unfair connotation of being lesser than single-varietal wines.
Technical Detail
Blended wines may be labeled in several ways under TTB regulations. If one variety constitutes at least 75% of the wine, the wine can be labeled with that varietal name (the blend is implied). If multiple varieties are listed, they must total 100% and appear in descending order. If no varietals are listed, the wine uses a generic type designation ("Red Wine," "White Wine") or a proprietary name. Proprietary names must not be misleading and cannot conflict with existing standards of identity. The TTB does not require disclosure of blend composition beyond what the winery chooses to claim on the label. Multi-vintage blending is permitted but precludes vintage dating the wine.
Why It Matters
Blended wines represent a significant segment of COLA filings and offer insight into winemaking trends and consumer preferences. The popularity of proprietary blends as a premium category reflects the wine industry's shift toward winemaker-driven rather than varietal-driven marketing. For market analysts, tracking the ratio of varietal-labeled versus blend-labeled filings reveals evolving consumer preferences and winemaking philosophies.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Are blended wines lower quality than single-varietal wines?
Absolutely not. Many of the world's most celebrated and expensive wines are blends. Bordeaux first growths, Napa Valley proprietary reds, and Champagne are all blended wines. Blending is a skill that can enhance complexity and balance.
Does a blend have to list its grape varieties?
No. A blended wine can use a generic type designation like "Red Wine" or a proprietary name without disclosing the varieties used. Listing varieties is optional and, when done, must follow TTB formatting requirements.
Can a wine be a blend of different vintages?
Yes. Multi-vintage blending is common, especially in sparkling wines and non-premium tiers. However, a multi-vintage wine cannot carry a vintage date on the label since vintage dating requires 95% of the wine to come from a single harvest year.