Written By Andrii Savchenko

2022/02/01

Merlot is the most widely planted grape variety in Bordeaux. You can taste Merlot as a single grape wine but also often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot main descriptors include: medium-bodied flavors of cherries, plums and notes of chocolate. There are two notable styles of Merlot. The international style is popular in the New World where the grapes are harvested late and get a more purple-like color and fuller taste. The traditional Bordeaux style with early harvest that gives wine higher acidity, a little less fullness and flavors of red fruits like strawberry and raspberry.

Merlot Grape Profile

Where is Merlot from?

Originating from the world-renowned wine region of Bordeaux in France, Merlot is a red wine grape variety that has captured the palates of wine enthusiasts globally. The birthplace of Merlot, Bordeaux, is distinguished for its role in creating some of the finest blends, where Merlot is a key player along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Merlot's prominence, however, extends beyond the French borders, finding a substantial foothold in California's wine country. California's sunny climate and diverse soils offer an optimal environment for Merlot, resulting in wines with distinctive profiles that vary from their Bordeaux counterparts. Regardless of its origin, Merlot is cherished for its smooth, plummy flavors, moderate tannins, and easy-drinking nature, marking its place as one of the world's most popular wines.

Merlot is one of the world's most planted grape varieties, along with the famous Cabernet Sauvignon. France accounts for approximately two thirds of the world's total plantation of Merlot, followed by Italy (Tuscany, Veneto), the United States (California, Washington), Spain, Romania and Chile. Merlot is often grown near Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards but usually in the colder zones as the Merlot grape would otherwise ripen prematurely.

Interesting story about Merlot

An 18th-century French official first used 'Merlau' in his notes on the best wines. It is believed that the grape is named after the little blackbird (called 'merlau' in one of the local French dialects) who likes to eat grapes. DNA tests have shown that Merlot is descended from Cabernet Franc and it is a half-sibling of Carmenere, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Merlot grape characteristics

Merlot thrives in cool soil, especially well in ferrous clay. It buds early, making it vulnerable to frosty spring nights. Merlot does not need much water so it needs well-drained soil. Merlot ripens early: once the grapes have developed, it can mature very quickly until it becomes overripe.

Merlot Wines

In France, wines are often named after the region they come from. Like a traditional Bordeaux wine, Merlot is considered to have a fullness and roundness. In Bordeaux, it is mainly grown on the north bank of the river Gironde and in the regions such as Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. Merlot is traditionally blended with other Bordeaux grapes such as, for example, Cabernet Franc. In Italy, Merlot is produced as a single grape wine or blended with Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc in the Friuli region or with Sangiovese in Tuscany. In the US, Merlot is used to produce all styles of red wines from light red wines to more complex aged wines.

What to pair with Merlot?

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Merlot, with its soft lightness, can be easily paired with many different dishes. Full-bodied Merlot goes perfectly with grilled meat. Soft and fruity styles of Merlot go well with salmon or mushroom-based dishes. Light Merlot tastes good with shrimp and seafood.

Where to find the best Merlot wines

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Bordeaux

Here are some wineries in Bordeaux where you can taste the best Merlot wines:

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Read more about Bordeaux

Tuscany

Here are some wineries in Tuscany where you can taste the best Merlot wines:

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Read more about Tuscany

Chile

Here are some wineries in Chile where you can taste the best Merlot wines:

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Read more about Chile

Frequently Asked Questions about Merlot

Is Merlot a type of grape?

Yes, Merlot is a grape species which is used to produce wine.

What kind of grapes make Merlot?

Merlot is a red wine grape that belongs to the Vitis Vinifera species, specifically cultivated for winemaking. While not commonly found in supermarkets due to its value for winemaking, Merlot is widely grown in vineyards around the world. Its parentage includes Cabernet Franc and Magdeleine Noire des Charentes, with research confirming its half-sibling relationship with Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot grapes are prized for their ability to produce smooth, medium-bodied wines with rich fruit flavors, making it a popular choice for wine enthusiasts and winemakers alike.

How to produce Merlot wine?

Merlot wine is produced by destemming the grapes to reduce bitterness and fermenting them with skins at 82- 86 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a rich red color. After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels for added flavor. Merlot wines are typically made solely from the Merlot grape varietal, but it is also used, along with Cabernet Sauvignon, in the traditional Bordeaux blend, contributing depth and character. The final product is a medium-bodied red wine with smooth tannins and pronounced fruit notes of plum, cherry, and hints of chocolate or herbs, offering a delightful and approachable drinking experience.

Can you eat Merlot grapes?

As all grapes, Merlot grapes are edible. Moreover, they are even sweeter than ordinary table grapes. However, they also have higher tannin concentration and thicker seeds. Thus they disclose their potential much better in the wine than as the fruit on the table.

Where do Merlot grapes grow?

Merlot is a widely grown international grape variety found in both New and Old World wine regions. Its primary production centers are in France (Bordeaux), Italy (Veneto, Tuscany), and the United States (California, Washington). Additionally, Merlot vineyards can be found in various countries such as Romania, Australia, and Argentina. Its adaptability to diverse climates and soil types has led to its cultivation in numerous wine regions worldwide, making it the third most-grown wine grape globally.

What kind of wine is a Merlot?

Merlot is a red wine grape variety known for its approachability and versatility. It produces medium to full-bodied wines with flavors of dark fruits such as plum, cherry, and blackberry. Merlot wines are often smooth, with soft tannins and moderate acidity, making them popular among a wide range of wine drinkers.

What does Merlot taste like?

Merlot wines typically have flavors of ripe dark fruits such as plum, cherry, and blackberry. They can also exhibit notes of herbs, chocolate, and sometimes a hint of cedar or tobacco. Merlot wines tend to be smooth on the palate with moderate acidity, soft tannins, and a velvety texture. The specific flavor profile of Merlot can vary depending on factors such as the region, winemaking style, and age of the wine.

What is the difference between Merlot and Pinot Noir?

Merlot and Pinot Noir are distinct red wine grape varieties. Merlot produces medium to full-bodied wines with flavors of dark fruits and a smooth texture, while Pinot Noir wines are lighter in body with flavors of red fruits and an earthy character. Pinot Noir is often more delicate and nuanced, while Merlot tends to be more structured and fruit-forward.

How do you drink Merlot red wine?

Merlot red wine is typically served at a cool to room temperature, around 12-14°C. To drink Merlot, it is recommended to pour the wine into a suitable glass, such as a standard wine glass or a Bordeaux-style glass, to allow for proper aeration and aroma appreciation. Take a moment to swirl the wine gently in the glass to release its aromas, then bring the glass to your nose to inhale the fragrance. Finally, take small sips, allowing the wine to coat your palate and savor its flavors, noting any complexities or nuances that emerge.

Does Merlot have a lot of sugar?

Merlot wines are typically dry, meaning they have minimal residual sugar. Dry wines have had most of their sugar fermented into alcohol during the winemaking process. However, it's important to note that the sugar levels in wine can vary depending on the winemaking style and the specific producer. Some winemakers may choose to make off-dry or slightly sweet Merlot wines, but these are not the norm.

Is Merlot the healthiest red wine?

While Merlot is considered a healthy red wine due to its moderate levels of resveratrol, an antioxidant linked to heart health, it is important to note that the overall healthiness of a wine depends on various factors. Other red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir also offer health benefits. Ultimately, moderate consumption of any red wine, as part of a balanced lifestyle, can contribute to potential health advantages.

Should you drink Merlot warm or cold?

Merlot is generally best enjoyed at a slightly cool or cellar temperature, which is around 12-14°C. This allows the wine to showcase its flavors and aromas effectively. Serving it too cold can mute the flavors, while serving it too warm can make the wine overly alcoholic and less enjoyable.

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