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-colored wine grape, used as both a blending grape and for varietal wines. It is known for its soft, approachable style with notes of plum, cherry, and chocolate.
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
Estate Merlot
Red WineValdivieso · 2024 · Valle Central
Merlot
Red WineSt. Francis · Sonoma County
Drink 2024–2028
Merlot Sonoma
Red WineSt Francis · Sonoma County
Drink 2024–2028
Grand-Pey-Lescours
Bordeaux Red BlendChâteau Grand-Pey-Lescours · St-Émilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux
90 Wine Enthusiast
Drink 2015–2030
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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