Single-varietal wines vs. blended wines
It is often said that French wine is primarily made from blends, especially when discussing it abroad where the majority of wines are sold under a label indicating a single grape variety, such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Riesling. While it is true that Bordeaux wines and Champagne are produced in this way, France also specializes in so-called "single varietal" wines.
What is the difference with assemblies?
But first, what is the difference between these two wine styles? They are actually two complementary philosophies. While blending uses several different grape varieties, single-varietal wine is based on a single grape variety.
Blending allows the winemaker to influence the balance of the wine, favoring one grape variety over another in a given vintage to compensate for the weaknesses of the others. Some argue that blending adds complexity to the wine, as the aromas and characteristics of several grape varieties broaden the sensory experience of the final product.
On the other hand, single-varietal wine is said to represent the purest expression of terroir. With only one permitted grape variety, the specific characteristics of the vintage or geographical location are more faithfully conveyed. And since all wines within the appellation are made from the same grape variety, the comparison between terroirs and winemakers becomes more interesting.
Great French single-varietal wines
The most famous single-varietal wine is undeniably Burgundy. Pinot Noir for red, Chardonnay for white—it's no coincidence that this region boasts 100 AOCs, some of which are Grand Cru vineyards barely larger than a hectare. Every subtlety is reflected in the wine, and the enthusiast takes endless pleasure in identifying its origin. Further south, the Beaujolais and its 10 wines are made exclusively from Gamay grapes.
The big ones Loire wines also use a single grape variety in the appellations of Vouvray Or Savennières in Chenin Blanc; Sancerre Or Pouilly-Fumé in Sauvignon Blanc; Chinon or Bourgueil in Cabernet Franc. In the Syrah grape variety, the finest terroirs of Rhône Northern wines are often single-varietal, such as Saint-Joseph, Cornas, Côte-Rôtie Or HermitageHowever, a small quantity of white grapes is sometimes permitted. Condrieu As for him, he is still a 100% Viognier.
Alsace, closer to the German system, also emphasizes the grape variety. This is even indicated on the label: Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Sylvaner, or Muscat. Finally, let's not forget that even regions known for their blends also produce single-varietal wines. This is the case with... blanc de blancs in Champagne (and sometimes also white wines made from blacks), as well as the most renowned of the Bordeaux wines, Château Petruswhich contains almost exclusively Merlot!