Blend red

What role do assemblages play in the range of wines from the Adrian & Diego Mathier Nouveau Salquenen AG winery?

In the portfolio of the best Swiss winery of the decade, assemblages are just as important as single-varietal wines. Combining different grape varieties from different locations in no way means a reduction in quality – quite the opposite. The art of a perfect assemblage requires the highest level of skill. The outstanding quality of such compositions is also demonstrated by the fact that Diego Mathier, an experienced winemaker with a trained eye, has created numerous blends that have reached the top at international competitions. The titles of Swiss champion, won multiple times, and the award for the world's best blend impressively demonstrate the excellence and sophistication of this art.

What does assemblage mean in art?

In art, ‘assemblage’ refers to a technique in which three-dimensional objects or found objects are combined to create a collage or a work of art. Artists use materials such as wood, metal or everyday objects to create abstract compositions. The word comes from the French ‘assembler’, which means ‘to put together’. This technique gained widespread popularity in the 20th century, particularly through artists such as Picasso and Duchamp. It allows traditional concepts of art to be challenged by placing ordinary objects in a new context and creating new perspectives.

What does assemblage mean in viticulture?

In viticulture, ‘assemblage’ describes the targeted blending of different grape varieties or vintages to create a harmonious composition. This method is used in many wine regions, especially where a wide variety of grapes grow. While the German word ‘Verschnitt’ often has negative connotations, assemblages create first-class wines with complex aromas. This practice is particularly essential in France, for example in the Champagne region, where grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are combined to create a characteristic style. The aim of an assemblage is to emphasise the strengths of individual components while creating a balanced overall picture.

What is the difference between assemblage and cuvée?

The term ‘cuvée’ comes from the French and originally meant ‘vat’. In France, however, ‘cuvée’ refers not only to an assemblage, but also to any bottled wine, regardless of whether it consists of one or more grape varieties. Outside France, cuvée is often used synonymously with assemblage. Other terms such as blend, coupage or mariage describe the same process. Since these terms are not legally defined, they do not provide any direct information about the quality of the wine.

Why is the art of blending in viticulture similar to artistic assemblage?

Both the winemaker and the artist work with different ‘materials’ to create something new. While artists combine colours, shapes and structures, winemakers use different grape varieties to create a flavour composition. Just as Picasso experimented with his assemblage in painting, so too does the winemaker, thereby creating a wine that reflects his or her individual style. The combination of individual elements into a unique whole connects both disciplines.

Is assemblage an old or modern technique in viticulture?

The art of blending is by no means a modern invention, but rather a centuries-old tradition. Even in ancient times, Romans mixed different grapes to optimise the taste and quality of their wines. This technique has proven itself over centuries, especially in Bordeaux, where grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc are artfully combined to create complex, elegant wines. The blending is similar to a collage: individual elements are harmoniously combined to create a new, unique work of art.

Are there other parallels between art and viticulture?

Just as an artist draws inspiration from his surroundings, a winemaker also draws on external influences such as terroir, climate and grape variety. The decision as to which grapes to combine is a creative choice shaped by experience. While artists present their works in galleries, winemakers show their wines at trade fairs, tastings and events. In both fields, unique works are created that evoke emotions and tell stories.