Merlot

Merlot Wine: A Sensory Journey from Bordeaux to Global Excellence

Merlot is a grape variety that captures the admiration of palates around the world, recognised for its innate elegance and versatility. Originating from the renowned Bordeaux region of France, this wine has a history that dates back to the 18th century and has evolved to become a symbol of oenological refinement. Characterised by a rich and enveloping sensory profile, with distinctive notes of red fruits, plums and a hint of sweet spices, Merlot wins connoisseurs' hearts with its extraordinary complexity and pleasantness.

The history of Merlot wine is steeped in fascination and mystery, with legends even linking it to ancient Rome. However, it was in the terroir of Bordeaux that Merlot found its true home, gaining popularity during the 19th century, especially in the Pomerol region. It has a long history of cultivation in France and is often used as a main or secondary component in many famous blends. Over the years, it has spread throughout the world, becoming one of the most popular grape varieties. In Italy, it is mainly cultivated in northern regions such as Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Veneto and Tuscany. Italian Merlot wines are known for their smoothness and elegance, with fruity aromas and a pleasantness on the palate that makes them very popular both in Italy and abroad. In the United States, Merlot is widely cultivated in California, especially in the Napa Valley and Sonoma County region. In addition to the countries mentioned above, it is also successfully cultivated in Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina.

Characteristics of Merlot

Merlot red wine is characterised by its sophisticated and rich sensory profile, which reflects the terroir of its origin. The different regions where it is grown give Merlot a wide range of styles and interpretations, from soft and fruity wines to more structured and complex examples.

It has a complex and engaging sensory profile. In young wines, intense aromas of ripe red fruits such as cherries, raspberries and blackcurrants can be perceived. With age, nuances of dried fruits, plums, sweet spices and sometimes chocolate notes emerge. Some Merlots may also exhibit slight earthy or floral notes, which add further complexity to the flavour profile.

It usually has a moderate level of acidity, which contributes to the wine's freshness and liveliness. This balanced acidity ensures that the wine has a good structure without being overly acidic or tense.

Merlot wines can vary in body from light to medium, depending on the region of production and the winemaking process. In general, Merlot tends to have a fuller body than other light wines such as Pinot Noir, but is slightly less robust than Cabernet Sauvignon.

Overall, it is an extremely versatile grape variety that produces wines that are accessible and pleasant to drink, with an inviting aromatic profile that leaves a soft, enveloping mouthfeel.

What should Merlot be paired with?

The versatility of this wine allows a wide range of pairings. Among the dishes that go best with Merlot are red meats such as beef, lamb and pork, but also roast chicken and turkey. A classic pairing is with pasta dishes with meat sauces, gnocchi with meat sauce and lasagne, which find an ideal partner in this wine due to its ability to complement the flavours. Soft, medium-aged cheeses such as brie, camembert and gouda also pair well with Merlot. In fact, its softness contrasts with the creaminess of the cheeses, creating a pleasant balance.

What is the difference between Merlot and Cabernet?

Often compared, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are two distinct grape varieties with unique characteristics. Both are widely grown in Bordeaux and the rest of the world, but Merlot is distinguished by its softness and roundness compared to Cabernet Sauvignon. The latter, on the other hand, has a more robust structure, characterised by notes of black fruits and spices and a strong flavour. The choice between Merlot and Cabernet often depends on personal preference and the desired culinary pairing. Merlot tends to be more versatile and suitable for a wider range of dishes, while Cabernet Sauvignon, due to its firm structure, excels with richer dishes such as mature cheese, grilled beef or stew.

The best wineries only on xtraWine

Merlot wine is a symbol of quality and tradition, encapsulating the essence of its growing environment in every sip. On xtraWine, discover a curated selection of Merlot from the most prestigious wineries, where each producer offers a unique insight into this fascinating grape variety.