What are the benefits of blending wine?

You may have noticed more wine blends on store shelves these days, and some of your favorites like Bourdeaux, Chianti, and Cote Du Rhone may be blends without you even knowing it.

According to Justin Ove, Director of Wine Education, Arizona Stronghold Vineyards, blending varietals is a way for winemakers to create a desired flavor profile, or style of wine.

It is beneficial, Ove says, because 'as good as most varietals can be on their own, they are often lacking in one or more departments such as color, tannin, and acid.  By adding other varietals you can make up for any perceived deficiencies, as well as highlight the better qualities of a single varietal.'

Because winemakers can use blends to create different flavors of wine, you may be thinking they would be better.  Ove says that's not necessarily the case, as with everything in the wine industry it varies according to the wines and the wineries 'some of the highest priced, most well respected wines in the world are single varietals, and some of them are blends.'   

If you want a hands-on learning experience, head to the Arizona Stronghold Tasting Room in Cottonwood for a cool weekend escape of wine tasting.

Arizona Stronghold Tasting Room
1023 North Main Street
Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Phone: 928-639-2789
www.azstronghold.com

If you want to get one on one with a wine maker, now is the time to reserve your spot for a 3-course dinner at The Parlor.  Justin and Paula Woolsey will be on hand to talk about the winemaking process. Availability is limited, call The Parlor at 602-248-2480 to reserve your spot today.