"Superb Red Blends from Around the World"

Some of the greatest wines in the world are blends. The famous French Bordeauxs and the great Riojas of Spain have always been blends of different grape varietals. In Bordeaux for example the Cabernet Sauvignon is used for its structure and the Merlot is used for its plump softness and velvety mouthfeel. Cabernet Franc is used to lift the aromatics of the Bordeaux and the Petit Verdot and Malbec add color, structure and complexity. White Bordeaux is comprised of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle. Every variety plays their part in making the wine more interesting and complex. In Rioja the Tempranillo is King but the Garnacha(Grenache) also contributes to the wines body, color and structure. Other less important grapes also find their way to the blend in these spectacular Spanish gems. The great Southern Rhone wines of Chateauneuf du Pape have always been blends and the reds can use 13 varietals. Today in the booming wine world there are countries making outstanding red blends using international grapes and even some more obscure varietals. Superb blends from Argentina, Chile, Italy, Spain, California and Washington are just some of the places that are producing fabulous gems for the money. If your a lover of robust red wines and enjoy Cabs, Merlot, Syrah, Grenache and Sangiovese than heres a list of some of my favorite red blends from around the globe. Remember to keep an open mind to many other fab blends coming out from all over the wine world and even are own Pacific Northwest.

1) Cline Cashmere 2007, California - This producer is well known for its big red Zinfandels, but this blend rocks the house. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre make up this California wine in a Southern Rhone fashion. Heady aromatics of Cherries and pepper with flavors of raspberries, chocolate and plum make this a personal favorite.
Pair with a whiskey pepper steak.

2) Carpineto Dogajolo 2005, Italy - The wine is a blend of Sangiovese( the famous grape of Tuscany) and Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is what we call a Super - Tuscan. A phrase that was put into place over 20 years ago when Italian winemakers started combining traditional grapes with international ones. The wine displays aromas and flavors of berries, coffee, vanilla and spice. A killer blend for the money!
Pair with Manicotti, Veal Parmesan or with a nice Italian cheese.

3) Piattelli Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc Premium 2005, (Piattelli Premium Blend) Argentina - Heres a wine from South America made with the famous grapes of Bordeaux. Aromas of blackberry and vanilla with flavors of blackcurrant, blackcherry and a touch of oak. Great structure with ripe tannins.
Pair with a Ribeye off the grill. 

4) Kiona Cabernet/Merlot 2003, Washington State - This wine comes from one of the pioneering wineries from Washington State. The wine also has a touch of Cab Franc and Syrah to add complexity and aromatics. Cherries, raspberries and a touch of oak make this a joy to drink with a wide array of foods. The wine also has vibrant acidity and great structure.
Pair with grilled pork and red meats.

5) Vega Sindoa Tempranillo/Merlot 2005, Spain - The wine is coming from the famous growing region of Navarra and if you want a bottle that over delivers than here it is. The Tempranillo adds a silky mouthfeel with aromatics of cherries and raspberry. The Merlot fills up the mid palate with plums and blackcherry. Bang for the buck is delivered from this all estate wine.
Pair with stuffed Portabellas and grilled pork chops.

Hope you find some gems!
Jeff Anderson
Sommelier