email this pageIf you’ve been choosing wine based on a single grape—Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Grigio—maybe it’s time to veer off that beaten path and try a blend. After all, European winemakers have been blending grapes for centuries with revered results (those famous red Bordeaux, for example, are blends). Winemakers everywhere are coming up with unique, anything-goes formulas, and the results can range from satisfying, any-night sips to head-turning party picks. More great news: many are good values, too.
Curious? A good way to start is to try a blend that features your favorite grape mixed with some new dancing partners. Here some inexpensive, reliable picks and the grapes that go into each.
White Blends- Big House White 2004 California White Wine—Viognier, Chenin Blanc, French Colombard, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc and Marsanne; $10
- Joseph Phelps Pastiche 2004 California White Table Wine—Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay; $13
- Ménage à Trois 2005 California White Table Wine (from Folie à Deux Winery)—Chardonnay, Muscat and Chenin Blanc; $12
- Alice White South Eastern Australia Cabernet Shiraz; $6.99
- Wild Bunch 2003 California Red Wine—Zinfandel, Syrah and Barbera; $10
- St. Francis Winery 2002 Sonoma County Red—Merlot, Zinfandel, Grenache and Sangiovese; $12
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