Image
Winemaking8 min read

Blending the Symphony

In the world of wine, the debate between blends and single varietals is a topic of endless fascination. While personal preference plays a significant role, it's worth noting that some of the most revered and costly Old World wines are, in fact, blends. Our winemaker, Erich Bradley, beautifully compares single-varietal wines to solo artists and blends to an orchestra.

Author URL
David Brodowsky11 Jan 2024

The Orchestral Harmony of Wine Blends

Wine blends are akin to a finely orchestrated symphony. In these blends, each grape variety brings its unique characteristics to the table, similar to how various instruments contribute distinct sounds to a musical piece. The artistry lies in the winemaker's skill to harmoniously combine these diverse grapes, each playing a vital role in creating a balanced, nuanced, and multidimensional wine.

The resulting blend is an intricate tapestry of flavors, aromas, and textures. It's comparable to the rich interplay of melodies, harmonies, and rhythms in a symphony orchestra, where the collective performance transcends the capabilities of individual instruments.

A Rhône Blend: An Orchestral Wine Masterpiece

Taking the analogy further, let's consider the Rhône blends, where the symphonic parallel is particularly apt. In these blends, each grape varietal contributes its essence to the overall composition, much like the different sections in an orchestra.

Syrah The robust and deep flavors of Syrah mirror the powerful brass section, providing the blend with strength and structure.

Grenache — Like the strings in an orchestra, Grenache adds sweetness, warmth, and a melodious quality with its higher alcohol content.

Mourvèdre — Contributing tannins and dark fruit notes, Mourvèdre is akin to the percussion section, offering rhythm and depth.

Viognier — Occasionally used in small amounts in some red blends, Viognier is the woodwind section, introducing a floral and aromatic lift to the ensemble.

Just as a conductor brings together the strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion to create a harmonious and cohesive musical performance, the Rhône winemaker artfully blends these varietals. The outcome is a wine that embodies complexity and harmony. Each sip reveals layers of flavor and texture, creating an experience as captivating and memorable as a beautifully orchestrated symphony.

Single Varietals vs. Blends: A Personal Symphony

Ultimately, whether one prefers the solo performance of a single varietal or the complex symphony of a blend, the beauty of wine lies in its ability to tell a story, evoke emotions, and create experiences. At Ojai Mountain, we celebrate the diversity and artistry in both single-varietal wines and blends, inviting wine lovers to explore and find their personal symphony in each bottle.


Share this post

Recent Posts

Ojai Mountain's Team10 Feb 2025

A Master of Terroir: Erich Bradley's Winemaking Philosophy

Erich Bradley, the talented winemaker behind Ojai Mountain's exciting new venture, brings a wealth of experience and a unique philosophy to our high-e...

Winemaking

Ojai Mountain's Team21 Oct 2024

Tonight's Dinner: Portobello Pasta & Ojai Mountain Wine

Savor a delightful combination of meaty portobello mushroom sauce and al dente pasta noodles that pairs perfectly with our Rhone-style 2020 Ojai Mount...

Wine

Ojai Mountain's Team11 Dec 2024

A Prime Rib Worthy of Our Mountain Syrah

When prime rib meets high-altitude Syrah, something extraordinary happens. We've perfected the pairing in our kitchen. Simple enough for home cooks, s...

Wine
Recipe

Ojai Mountain's Team12 Oct 2022

2022 Harvest Recap: Challenges & Triumphs

The 2022 harvest season at Ojai Mountain was one of remarkable fruit quality, and continued progress in sustainability. Despite ongoing drought condit...

Viticulture
Winemaking

Ojai Mountain's Team22 Sept 2024

Inside the Harvest: A Look at 2024 Vintage

The 2024 harvest at Ojai Mountain Vineyard was one for the books. An early heatwave forced us to make critical picking decisions. Despite the challeng...

Viticulture
Winemaking
View All Posts