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
Famous regions
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
Similar grapes
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