The Blending Process
After fermentation and aging, winemakers taste individual lots — from different grape varieties, vineyard blocks, or barrels — and compose the final blend. This process can involve dozens of trials before the ideal proportions are found.
Assemblage in Bordeaux
Bordeaux blends are the most famous example:
- Left Bank — Cabernet Sauvignon dominant, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
- Right Bank — Merlot dominant, with Cabernet Franc and sometimes Cabernet Sauvignon
- The Grand Vin is the top selection; remaining lots become the second wine
Assemblage in Champagne
Champagne houses blend across three dimensions: grape variety (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier), vineyard source, and vintage. Non-vintage Champagne may include reserve wines from 5-10+ previous years.
Single-Variety vs. Blends
While some regions celebrate single-variety wines (Burgundy Pinot Noir, Alsace Riesling), many of the world's greatest wines are blends. Each component contributes something — structure, aromatics, freshness, or complexity.