Red Wine Blends

Red wine blends are becoming increasingly popular in the U.S., as many wine lovers appreciate these smooth, rich, and fruity wines.

A red wine blend combines two or more grape varieties to create a well-balanced wine. Any mix of grapes may be used, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to Tempranillo and Graciano.

France, Italy, and Spain have long since perfected the art of red wine blending, and some of the world’s best-known red wine blends, including Bordeaux, Chianti, and Rioja, hail from Europe.

The art of blending wine is not confined to Europe, however, with winemakers creating a vast array of blends worldwide—and our team of wine experts have hand-selected some of the world’s most incredible red wine blends for you to start your next wine adventure.

For a great red wine blend, shop our selection to find the right bottle, whether to enjoy with friends or to celebrate a special occasion.

Many of the world’s most renowned red wine blends contain one or more grape varieties, with a complex array of grapes used for blending, including:

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Cabernet Franc
• Malbec
• Syrah/Shiraz
• Grenache
• Petit Verdot
• Cinsault
• Carménère

As red blends encompass a variety of grapes, the flavors in each red wine blend will vary.

The most common red wine blends are made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, but many other possible combinations exist.

When tasting a red wine blend, you may notice various flavors and aromas, depending on the grapes used in the blend. Cabernet Sauvignon wines are often described as having blackberry, cassis, and tobacco flavors, for example. In contrast, Merlot wines are often described as being softer and more approachable, with flavors of plum and cherry.

Where and how the red wine blend is made will also add to its unique taste. Popular Cabernet-dominant blends, for example, are typically full-bodied and flavorful, whereas Merlot-dominant blends are known for their smoother feel.

If you’re unsure what to expect from a particular red wine blend, the best way to find out is to try it.

Due to their impressive adaptability, red blends complement various foods.

Typically, most red blends partner well with pizza, cured meats, cheese platters, and tomato-based pasta dishes, as well as meaty meals like hearty homemade stews and juicy burgers, all served family style.

If you’re unsure what to pair with your red wine blend, a good rule of thumb is to match the weight of the wine with the weight of the food. Heavier red wine blends go well with heavier dishes, while lighter red wine blends match better with lighter dishes.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a timeless red wine blend from the Bordeaux region of France. Its high tannins mean it can age for decades. Loved by red-wine drinkers worldwide, this medium-full-bodied red wine can feature any combination of five key grapes—Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc. Its primary tasting notes include plum, black currant, and tobacco. Bordeaux wines come in charming green bottles and are best enjoyed alongside a peppered steak and roast vegetables.

Chianti

Chianti is an Italian, medium-bodied wine blend that must contain at least 80% of Sangiovese. Up to 49 other grape varieties can be used in Chianti blends, but the most common are Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc. Chianti offers layers of earthy and rustic aromas and is packed with diverse tasting notes of red fruits, black cherry, vanilla, tomato, and balsamic vinegar. Pair this classic Italian wine with a truly authentic Italian pizza or pasta dish.

Rioja

Rioja is a medium-full-bodied red wine brimming with tannins and notes of dark cherry, plums, and figs. It showcases Spain’s flagship red grape variety, Tempranillo, alongside grapes like Garnacha, Graciano, or Mazuelo. This Spanish blend best partners with spicier cuisines, such as chili, tapas, or paella.

Super Tuscan

A full-bodied Italian red wine that offers luscious clove, leather, and blueberry flavors. Most commonly, it combines Tuscan star Sangiovese with international varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc. Enjoy a glass of Super Tuscan with bruschetta, paté, or a selection of rich Italian cheeses.

Priorat

A medium-full-bodied red wine with notes of raspberry, chocolate, blueberry, bramble fruits, pepper, violet, and wet granite. Comprising Garnacha, Caeinenan, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, Priorat is an excellent accompaniment to sweet-and-sour dishes, such as south-east Asian cuisines, or tangy barbecue dishes.

Red wines are blended to create delicious new flavors and increase their aging ability, helping them have sufficient acidity, tannin, and alcohol levels to age well for years. It may come as a surprise to learn that the lesser-known grapes found in these wine blends bring a distinct complexity, structure, and uniqueness to a bottle of red wine.

Usually, most red wine blends tend to be dry but may offer a sweeter taste (particularly those produced outside of Europe) due to their mixture of rich fruit notes.

A misconception is that red wine blends should be served at room temperature. However, most red wine blends are best served chilled. Between 55—65° F is the ideal serving temperature for most red blends, especially those with a lower alcohol level.