When you pick up a bottle of wine, the label is telling you a story. Terms like Single Vineyard wine, Estate Bottled wine, or Blended wine might catch your eye, but what do they really mean? Each one gives you clues about where the grapes come from, how the wine was crafted, and what you can expect when you pour that first glass.

Let's break it down in a way that makes choosing the right bottle simple and a little more fun!

 What Are Single Vineyard Wines? Unique Influences and Flavors

Single-vineyard wines are all about a sense of place. Every bottle comes from grapes grown in one specific vineyard, sometimes even a particular section, which gives the wine a signature fingerprint tied to the land itself.

  • Conditions:

    Soil, climate, and vineyard care all play a part in shaping the character of these wines. Winemakers often talk about terroir, the natural environment that leaves its imprint on the wine.

  • Flavors:

    Because these wines reflect nature so closely, flavors can shift slightly from year to year. One vintage might lean into bold, dark fruit while another highlights crisp citrus with a hint of minerality. That variation is part of the adventure.

Why Choose It: If you love wines that tell a tasty story of where they come from, single-vineyard selections are a perfect fit. They bring you closer to the vineyard itself.

Try This Pick:

Bottle of limited edition red wine next to a dish of potato kugel on a white background

Tabor Limited Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 1/11.000 2019

Dark ruby-red with flavors of black forest fruits, cassis, and hints of caramel and Mediterranean herbs. Aged 18 months in French oak, it delivers a structured, flavorful character.

Pair With: Slow-cooked meats, roasted vegetables, or potato kugel.

SHOP TABOR LIMITED CABERNET '19

What Does Estate Bottled Wine Mean? A Winemaker’s Signature

Estate-bottled wines are crafted entirely under the watchful eye of the winery itself. The grapes are grown on landowned or controlled by the estate, and every step, from harvest to bottling, happens right there. The winemaker is closely connected to the process from start to finish.

  • Conditions:

    Because the grapes never leave the estate, there's a consistency and integrity to how they're grown and cared for. Each bottle reflects the winery's philosophy and craftsmanship.

  • Flavors:

    Estate wines often highlight balance and refinement. Expect polished fruit flavors, layered complexity, and a style that remains true to the winery's identity.

Why Choose It: If you're drawn to wines that capture the winemaker's personal touch like a signature across each bottle, estate selections are a rewarding choice.

Try This Pick:

Bottle of Dalton Chardonnay with salmon on a white background

Dalton Estate Unoaked Chardonnay 2023

Dalton Chardonnay from Kerem Ben Zimra bursts with vibrant citrus and tropical flavors.

Pair It With: Roasted chicken, grilled fish, or Mediterranean vegetables.

SHOP DALTON ESTATE CHARDONNAY '23

What Is a Wine Blend? Crafted for Harmony

Blends bring together grapes from either thesame or multiple vineyards, varietals,or regions, giving winemakers the chance to create something greater than the sum of its parts. These wines are all about balance, complexity, and creative expression.

  • Conditions:

    By drawing from multiple sources, winemakers can play with different characteristics like fruit from one vineyard, and structure from another, weaving them together like an artist with a palette.

  • Flavors:

    Expect approachable yet layered profiles, featuring juicy red or dark fruits, subtle spice, smooth tannins, and a rounded finish. Blends are crafted for drinkability without sacrificing depth.

Why Choose It: If you're drawn to wines that capture the winemaker's personal touch like a signature across each bottle, estate selections are a rewarding choice.

Try This Pick:

Bottle of Shiloh Privilege 2023 wine with a plate of tomato pasta on a white background

Shiloh Privilege 2023

Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Grenache.

Pair It With: Tomato-based pasta, roasted chicken, or a platter of semi-hard cheeses.

SHOP SHILOH PRIVILEGE '23

Single Vineyard vs Estate Bottled vs Blended Wines

Each style has its own charm. It’s not about right or wrong, it’s about the experience you want in your glass.

Style What It Means Flavor & Character Great Choice For
Single Vineyard Grapes from one specific vineyard Distinct flavors reflecting the vineyard and terroir Wine lovers who enjoy a strong sense of a vineyard's personality.
Estate Bottled Grapes grown and bottled entirely by the same winery Balanced, polished, and consistent Fans of wines that reflect the winemaker’s signature style
Blended Grapes from multiple vineyards or varietals Layered, approachable, and versatile Those who enjoy smooth flexible wines for many occasions
Row of wine bottles on a reflective surface with a blurred background

Are You Ready to Continue Your Journey?

Whether you're curious about Single Vineyard character, Estate Bottled consistency, or the creativity of a Blended wine, your next favorite wine is out there.

If you're unsure where to start, we'd be happy to guide you. Our Wine Concierge service can help you find the styles and bottles that fit your taste, occasion, and budget.

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