Merlot

Merlot wine is so named for the grape that is used to produce it, and it is the most widely planted grape in the Bordeaux Region of France. The Merlot grape is commonly used in the varietal wine of the same name, which quite simply means a wine made with only that variety of grape; however, it is often blended with other grapes. One of its most popular pairings is with the later ripening Cabernet Sauvignon, because it is so similar. Merlot wine is widely popular in Australia, Italy, the United States, and South America.

Merlot, from the French word for blackbird, can be compared and contrasted to the Cabernet Sauvignon. It is thinner-skinned than the Cabernet and has fewer tannins, but the Merlot has a higher sugar content and lower acidity. A medium bodied red wine, with a soft and fruity profile, Merlot can be paired with the usual choices for reds, such as beef and lamb.

The versatility of this wine is shown in that a softer Merlot, grown in more northern regions, pairs well with salmon and mushroom-based dishes, similar to a Pinot Noir. One caution, in pairing a Merlot, is that a strong cheese will tend to drown out the fruity flavours of the wine. There is even a white Merlot, created in the same way as a white Zinfandel: the juice is quickly run off after crushing, to limit its contact with the skin of the grape.

Depth of flavour and ability to age well may lack, due to the earlier maturing characteristics of the grape, but most find this to be what makes the Merlot unique and versatile. All in all, Merlot is a drinkable red. It has the ability to pair with a variety of foods and drinks well on its own.

See all of our Merlot Wine Auctions here.