Mélange

A term used in viticulture with different meanings in different countries. The word comes from the French cuve (vat or wine container). In the original sense, it refers to a certain amount of wine in a container (a barrel of wine, so to speak). In German-speaking countries, it is generally understood to mean the skilful blending of wines from different grape varieties. However, this can also be grape musts that are then fermented together, as is common in the southern Rhône. Other terms are blend (New World), Cape Blend (South Africa), CVC (Conjunto de Varias Cosechas in Spain), Coupage, Marriage, Mélange (France for spirits), Meritage (California) and, in German-speaking countries, Verschnitt. As a rule, wines of the same colour are blended.

However, the term has no legal meaning in wine law, which is why "cuvée" on the label does not mean anything definite, as it can also be a wine from one grape variety, from one single vineyard or from one vintage. For example, an exclusive special bottling from a winery for a catering establishment. Under no circumstances is the blending of wines (as is often assumed in German-speaking countries) a negative difference in quality compared to single-varietal wines.

Purpose of blending

The main reason for blending wines is flavour. The aim is to bring in alcohol content, aromas, acidity and colour through several different grape varieties. The latter is achieved through teinturier varieties, of which only 5% are sufficient to deepen the colour....