Merlot
Originally from Bordeaux, France
The most approachable of the great Bordeaux varieties, Merlot produces plush, plummy wines with soft tannins. At its greatest in Pomerol, where Petrus is made, it reaches almost mythical heights. Widely planted everywhere but rarely taken seriously outside its heartland.
Merlot is a dark blue-skinned grape variety, known for producing soft, approachable wines with plum, cherry, and chocolate notes, often with a velvety texture.
Taste profile
Where Merlot is grown
Food pairings
Deep dive
Merlot is Bordeaux's most planted red grape and one of the most widely grown varieties in the world. Its naturally soft tannins and round fruit make it more immediately approachable than Cabernet Sauvignon.
Aromas & flavours: Plum, black cherry, chocolate, bay leaf, and mocha. In warmer climates the profile shifts toward blueberry, coffee, and dark cherry jam.
Structure: Medium to full body, medium tannin (notably softer than Cabernet Sauvignon), medium-high acidity, 13-15% alcohol. Merlot ripens two weeks earlier than Cab Sauv, making it easier to grow in cooler seasons.
Key regions: Right Bank Bordeaux, Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, where it dominates blends. Pétrus, one of the world's most expensive wines, is almost 100% Merlot. Also widely grown in Napa Valley, Tuscany (Super Tuscans), Washington State, and Chile's Colchagua Valley.
Food: Duck, roast chicken, mushroom risotto, pasta with meat sauce, and mild soft cheeses.
Notable Merlot wines
Cuvée
RedLeza Garcia · Priorat D.O.Q.
Merlot
Red WineSt. Francis · Sonoma County
Drink 2024–2028
Château Corbin
Bordeaux Red BlendChâteau Corbin · Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
Drink 2025–2035
Les Petits Arnaud Tradition
Bordeaux Red BlendChâteau Les Petits Arnaud · Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux
Drink 2022–2027
Merlot Sonoma
Red WineSt Francis · Sonoma County
Drink 2024–2028
Jardin des Charmes
RedAlma Cersius · Coteaux de Béziers
Drink 2021–2024
Estate Merlot
Red WineValdivieso · 2024 · Valle Central
LA ROSE POURRET
Red WineCHATEAU LA ROSE POURRET · SAINT-EMILION GRAND CRU
Drink 2024–2030
Indigo Eyes
Red WineIndigo Eyes · California
Bolgheri Rosso
Red WineLe Macchiole · Bolgheri, Tuscany
Drink 2026–2034
Il Bruciato
Red WineAntinori · Bolgheri
Drink 2025–2030
Il Bruciato
Red WineTenuta Guado al Tasso (Antinori) · Bolgheri, Tuscany
Drink 2025–2030
Similar grapes
Merlot FAQ
What is Merlot?
Merlot is a red wine grape that originated in Bordeaux, France. The most approachable of the great Bordeaux varieties, Merlot produces plush, plummy wines with soft tannins. At its greatest in Pomerol, where Petrus is made, it reaches almost mythical heights. Widely planted everywhere but rarely taken seriously outside its heartland.
What are the characteristics of Merlot?
On the palate it reads as full-bodied, medium acidity, medium tannin. Structurally: body 4/5, acidity 3/5, tannin 3/5, sweetness 2/5.
Is Merlot sweet?
Merlot is typically dry, though you will come across off-dry and properly sweet bottlings if you go looking.
What does Merlot taste like?
Think of it as a full-bodied red. The most approachable of the great Bordeaux varieties, Merlot produces plush, plummy wines with soft tannins. At its greatest in Pomerol, where Petrus is made, it reaches almost mythical heights. Widely planted everywhere but rarely taken seriously outside its heartland.
What food pairs with Merlot?
Reach for Merlot alongside Pasta Bolognese, Roast chicken, Pork tenderloin, Mild cheeses.
Where is Merlot grown?
You will find its finest expressions in Pomerol, Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion, Napa Valley, Tuscany, Washington State.
What grapes are similar to Merlot?
If you enjoy Merlot, try Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec. More tannic and structured. Often blended with Merlot in Bordeaux-style wines.
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