Exitus Red Blend Bourbon Barrel

Discover Blended Red Wine Wines

In the United States, a red mix is any American wine that isn't produced from a single grape type. It's an odd classification since many, if not all, red wines are and have always been mixes. A grand cru Bordeaux produced entirely of Cabernet, as well as Chiantis made entirely of Sangiovese, are the exception rather than the norm. In addition, California law only requires a wine's label to contain 75% of the grape type.

Winemakers combine grapes because it enables them to create a wine in a sense. A splash of Merlot may help soften Cabernet's tannins, while a dash of Syrah can give watery, inexpensive Pinot some punch. Blending is common in several regions: Rioja, for example, has traditionally blended Tempranillo, Graciano, and Garnacha. Many modern, inexpensive red blends, on the other hand, are simply created for mass appeal—lots of superripe, black fruit and no acidity—using whatever varietals would suffice.

Discover Bourbon Wines

Bourbon is most often associated with Bourbon County, Kentucky, although technically it can be produced anywhere in the United States. Kentucky is traditionally where American bourbon has been produced since the late 18th century. To be considered a bourbon whiskey, the drink must contain at least 51% corn and must be aged in new carbonized white oak barrels. Bourbon whiskey is available in bottles of eighty ABV (40% ABV) or more and cannot contain any color or aroma additives. A versatile alcohol that can be drunk pure, with water or ice, also goes well with cocktails like an Old Fashioned.