The winemaker, responsible for the blend
Wine blending is a technique that requires extensive knowledge to create positive synergies. In other words, it's about creating a beverage with personality, one that goes beyond the sum of the characteristics of the wines or grapes used. In this sense, the work of the winemaker is key to achieving this.
This wine professional will be responsible for selecting the appropriate grape varieties for the blend, following the winery's criteria and guidelines regarding the desired wine.
For a satisfactory result, the winemaker needs to have a deep understanding of the qualities of each grape variety and know how to combine them to achieve the desired characteristics. Of course, this isn't easy, as there are many variables to consider, such as the acidity level, aromas, colors, and sugar concentration provided by each grape variety. Therefore, in addition to knowledge, a special sensitivity is required to appreciate and detect all these nuances.
How is Wine Blending Done?
As we mentioned in the previous section, the blending process doesn't consist of randomly mixing wines; rather, it's a very meticulous task that requires knowledge, experience, and great sensory sensitivity.
In context, it should also be noted that there are multiple and varied methods of blending. However, there is consensus on the standards that this technique must follow within a single Designation of Origin for wines produced in the area to be accepted. The Regulatory Council of each DO establishes these criteria, which are typically aimed at controlling the permitted grape varieties and the minimum and maximum percentages that the blended wine may have.
In general terms, the procedure followed is as described below.
Selection of grape varieties or wines
Each grape variety contributes specific characteristics to the resulting wine in terms of flavor, aroma, body, and acidity. Therefore, the first step in wine blending is to determine which variety or wine will predominate in the blend. Often, the winery itself sets the guidelines in this regard.
Vinification and Adjustment
After deciding our base variety, the must is made with it. It is then tasted and analyzed. Once this is done, the varieties to be used are decided to enhance and adjust their organoleptic qualities. The remaining varieties are also tasted and evaluated separately beforehand.
Vinification is carried out independently to better preserve grapes’ characteristics. This also allows the winemaker to better evaluate and understand each wine, which is key to the blend.
Wine mix
Once our wines are ready, we proceed with the agreed-upon blend. The proportions of each wine will be determined by the style and flavor we want to impart to the final wine. The liquid undergoes further analysis and tasting to verify that the blend has been successful. If not, further adjustments are made until the desired result is achieved.
As you can imagine, wine tastings at this stage are very important to thoroughly evaluate all the key aspects of the wine before defining the final blend. Winemakers try different proportions, adjusting every detail to highlight the desired nuances. This process requires great experience and sensitivity, as even a small variation can change the wine's character.
Generally, all the tests conducted up to this point are on a small scale. Once the optimal blend is found, the blend is produced in large quantities.
Resting and Bottling
Before being marketed, blended wine is typically rested for a specific period to ensure stability and improve its sensory profile. This aging period can take place in either wooden barrels or steel tanks. Once ready, it is bottled and ready for distribution and enjoyment.
In other cases, winemaking is done completely separately, and it is only after aging that the varieties are selected for blending.
Types of Wine Blending
Blends don't follow a single formula; they vary depending on certain factors, such as each winery’s traditional process, the style each wine brand seeks, and the winemaker's vision, among other factors. There are several types of established methods of blending, which we'll discuss below.
Coupage de Variedades
"Coupage de Variedades" (Varieties Coupage) is the traditional Spanish blend and is the most common. It consists of different grape varieties in a single wine. Each grape contributes unique flavors, creating a balanced and complex blend. For example, Ribera del Duero wines are three-quarters Tempranillo, complemented by other grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon. In Ribeira Sacra, the base wine is made with Mencía and paired with Garnacha, Mouratón, Souson, or Brancellao.
These blending varieties can be made with white grapes, red grapes, or a combination of both resulting in a Rosé wine.
Coupage de Añadas
This blend is made with wines from different harvests to achieve a more stable profile over time despite the climatic variations that may occur each year. Blending different vintages is not permitted for wines with a Designation of Origin. Therefore, it is not a common type of blend.
Coupage de una Sola Variedad
As the name suggests, "Coupage de una Sola Variedad" blends grapes of the same variety but different characteristics. For example, these may be grapes from different plots or geographical areas, or grapes harvested at different times. The resulting wines are known as single-varietal wines.
Wine blending is an art with a proud tradition in this country. Thanks to these blending techniques and the expertise of expert winemakers, the best qualities of each grape shine to create wines as exceptional as those we offer at our online wine store. From now on, you'll surely keep this in mind when enjoying your favorite beverage.
