Why do we blend? It is to enhance the qualities of each grape, or maybe to add texture, aromatics, tannin or even colour. In the Rhone you will find a lot of Shiraz and Grenache blends. Back here in Australia (and New Zealand) we have so much freedom for many reasons (no limit to what we grow where, the alcohol content, whether a wine is oaked etc). In France we’re talking about Cabernet and Merlot (and more) in Bordeaux, a whole host of red grapes in Chateauneuf du Pape (up to 13 in fact!). A Classic Red Blend in Australia could be found in Margaret River (Cabernet Merlot etc). Some winemakers prefer to focus on a single grape variety and really let their qualities shine through eg Mataro, Touriga Nacional. Whereas some winemakers like to blend a whole host of grapes together to produce something very exciting. Some delicious blended Australian reds include RedHeads Esule, Penley, Halsbury, Frankland Estate, Lake Breeze… the list is endless! Head overseas to try Affogato, Le Prince de Courthezon, The Waxed Bat and so much more! There are just too many wines to recommend.