When you think of white wine, you might picture a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay. But there’s a whole other category of white wine that offers even more complexity and character: white wine blends. These wines combine two or more white grape varieties into a single, harmonious bottle—and they’re quickly becoming favorites among wine lovers and sommeliers alike.
Blends are wines made by combining different grape varieties, either during fermentation or after the wines have been vinified separately. The goal is to create a wine that’s greater than the sum of its parts—one that balances acidity, texture, fruit, and aromatics in a way that single-varietal wines often cannot.
Blends can be made from two varieties or several, depending on the winemaker’s vision and the desired style. Common combinations include:
Sauvignon Blanc + Semillon (popular in Bordeaux-style whites)
Viognier + Marsanne + Roussanne (a Rhône-style blend)
Chardonnay + Pinot Gris + Riesling (for a fruit-forward, aromatic profile)\
Blends give winemakers the opportunity to experiment and express creativity. Here’s why they’re so beloved in the cellar:
Balance: One grape might bring acidity, another texture, another aroma. Together, they create a well-rounded wine.
Consistency: In variable climates, blending helps winemakers create consistent quality year after year.
Complexity: With multiple grape varieties, you get a layered palate and aromatic experience.
Flexibility: Blends can be dry or off-dry, still or sparkling, light or full-bodied.
Because white wine blends vary widely depending on the grapes used, their flavor profiles can range from light and zesty to rich and floral. However, you can usually expect:
Bright acidity from grapes like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Riesling
Stone fruit and floral aromas from grapes like Viognier or Gewürztraminer
Roundness and creaminess from grapes like Chardonnay or Pinot Blanc
Mineral notes from grapes grown in cooler climates or rocky soils
Ultimately, white blends offer a layered, dynamic tasting experience that evolves as you sip. Blends are a great opportunity to taste the winemaking style of a wineries winemaker as they are not constrained by the expectations of the grape, but can express the best of the sum of its parts.
The versatility of white wine blends makes them excellent food wines. Depending on the blend’s body and flavor profile, here are some great pairing ideas:
Seafood: Grilled shrimp, oysters, or crab cakes
Cheese: Soft cheeses like Brie, goat cheese, or Havarti
Vegetarian Dishes: Roasted vegetables, risotto, or mushroom tart
Asian-Inspired Cuisine: Light curries, miso-glazed tofu, or sushi
Salads & Light Pasta: Citrus-dressed greens, primavera, or lemon-butter pasta
For optimal enjoyment, serve most white wine blends chilled—around 45–50°F (7–10°C). This helps preserve their bright aromas and crisp textures. If the blend is fuller-bodied or oak-aged, letting it warm slightly in the glass can enhance complexity.
As for storage, keep the bottle in a cool, dark place and drink within 1–3 years of release, unless the winemaker suggests longer aging.
Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned sipper, white wine blends offer a fresh perspective on what a white wine can be. They’re creative, expressive, and perfect for all kinds of food and occasions. Next time you’re browsing the wine aisle or visiting a tasting room, don’t overlook the blends—they just might surprise you.
Looking to try a standout white wine blend? Explore our new release, Lieb Estate 2024 4 Pinots—a rare blend of Pinot Grigio, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Meunier, and Pinot Noir—available now at Suhru & Lieb Vineyards.
