WHITE BLENDS
Versatility, Balance And Freshness By Design
White Blends combine multiple grape varieties to create wines that are bright, aromatic, and layered. These blends can be crisp and refreshing or textured and expressive, offering something for nearly every palate and occasion. For winemakers, they’re an opportunity to shape structure, nuance, and energy into one harmonious glass.
Key Characteristics
White Blends span a wide spectrum—some lean zesty and citrusy, others are fuller-bodied with floral and stone fruit notes. The style is shaped by both grape selection and regional traditions.
Style
Still, white
Body
Light to medium
Acidity
Medium to high
Primary Grapes
Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Viognier, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Gris (varies widely)
Typical Flavors
Citrus, green apple, white peach, honeysuckle, mineral, tropical fruit
Origin & History
Blending white grapes has been practiced for centuries in regions like Bordeaux, Rhône, and Alsace, where local varieties are grown side by side. Today, winemakers worldwide are embracing blending to highlight complementary traits—zest from Sauvignon Blanc, texture from Semillon, aromatics from Viognier, and so on. Modern white blends reflect both tradition and innovation.
How It’s Made
Individual grape varieties are harvested and vinified separately, then blended to achieve the desired balance of brightness, body, and aromatic complexity. Some blends are aged in stainless steel for freshness; others may see oak for texture and depth.
Notable Regions
White Blends are produced in many winegrowing regions, often reflecting local grape traditions.
France
Bordeaux & Rhône Valley
Bordeaux blends (Sauvignon Blanc + Semillon) and Rhône blends (Marsanne + Roussanne)
United States
California & Washington
Innovative blends, often aromatic and fruit-forward
South Africa
Western Cape
Chenin-based blends with texture and spice
Australia
Margaret River
Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon blends with freshness and polish
Food Pairings
White Blends' balanced profiles make them food-friendly across many cuisines.
Appetizers
Crudités, goat cheese tart, shrimp cocktail
Seafood
Grilled scallops, lemon sole, crab cakes
Cheeses
Goat cheese, Gruyère, Havarti
Vegetarian
Asparagus risotto, Thai green curry, roasted cauliflower
How to Serve It
Glassware
White wine glass to preserve aromatics and freshness
Temperature
45–50°F (7–10°C)
Storage
Store upright in a cool, dark place; chill before serving
Fun Fact
In white Bordeaux blends, Semillon can make up more than half of the wine; adding roundness and ageability, even though Sauvignon Blanc gets most of the attention.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of European white wines, from dry German blends to traditional Portuguese Port.
Dr. Bürklin-Wolf
A leading biodynamic estate in the Pfalz, known for vibrant, terroir-driven whites that balance freshness with complexity.
Ferreira
One of Portugal’s most historic Port houses, crafting elegant white Port with depth, balance, and a nod to tradition.
Recommended Pours
Dr Burklin Wolf - White Blend 2022 — A crisp and aromatic German white blend with citrus, orchard fruit, and a touch of minerality.
Ferreira - Porto Branco NV — A smooth and refreshing white Port offering notes of stone fruit, honey, and subtle nuttiness with a clean finish.