Blending different grape varieties in winemaking can have a significant impact on wine aromas. By combining different grapes, winemakers are able to create a complex and layered aromatic profile that can enhance the overall sensory experience of the wine.
Enhanced Aromas
When different grape varieties are blended together, they can complement each other’s aromatic qualities and create a more dynamic and intense aroma profile. This is because each grape variety brings its own unique set of aromas to the blend, which can combine to create a more complex and interesting bouquet.
- For example, blending a grape variety known for its floral notes with one known for its fruity aromas can result in a wine that has both floral and fruity characteristics, creating a more multidimensional aroma profile.
- By combining grapes with different aromatic profiles, winemakers can create a wine that is more balanced and harmonious in terms of its aromas, making it more enjoyable to drink.
Increased Complexity
Blending different grape varieties can also add complexity to the aromas of the wine. This complexity can come from the interaction of different aromatic compounds present in each grape variety, which can create new and interesting aromas that are not present in either grape on its own.
- For example, blending a grape variety with high levels of terpenes, which are responsible for floral aromas, with one that has high levels of pyrazines, which are responsible for green pepper aromas, can result in a wine that has both floral and green pepper notes, adding complexity to the aroma profile.
- Complex aromas can make a wine more interesting and engaging to the consumer, as they can discover new and unexpected aromas with each sniff.
Improved Balance
Blending different grape varieties can also help improve the balance of the wine’s aromas. By combining grapes with complementary aromatic qualities, winemakers can create a wine that is more balanced in terms of its aroma profile, with no single aroma dominating the others.
- For example, blending a grape variety with high acidity, which can contribute to citrus aromas, with one that has high levels of glycosides, which can contribute to tropical fruit aromas, can result in a wine that has both citrus and tropical fruit notes, creating a balanced and harmonious aroma profile.
- A wine that is well-balanced in terms of its aromas is more pleasing to the senses and can be more enjoyable to drink, as no single aroma overwhelms the others.