Everything You Need To Know About Merlot Wine

One of the most popular red wines in the world, and second in popularity in the United States to Cabernet Sauvignon, is merlot. It is developed from red-skinned grapes that can adapt to a variety of climes to produce food-friendly wines in several price ranges and is renowned for its smooth, sensuous texture and approachable style. Merlot can be rich and oaky or silky and cherry. Everyone can find something to enjoy, which is why Merlot is cherished. The French word "merlot" means "the small blackbird." A red grape variety known as merlot is also used to manufacture wine all over the world.

In blind-tasting testing, merlot and cabernet sauvignon can occasionally be confused, and they are frequently combined in red wine mixes. Despite coming from different varietals, the two wines do have the same ancestor: Cabernet Franc. Both wines taste like rich dark cherries with medicinal undertones (especially when grown in cooler climates). Merlot often has a suppler texture, softer tannins, and a more fruity flavour than cabernet sauvignon, which has stiffer tannins and a stronger herbal character. Merlot is frequently less expensive and occasionally thought to be less sophisticated. In red wine blends like the Bordeaux blend and "super Tuscan," the two complement one another well.

How is Merlot wine made?

Merlot begins in the vineyard, where the grapes are collected, pressed, and then the fermentation process begins. The winemaker also chooses whether Merlot will be a single-varietal wine or a mix with additional grape varietals. If blending is required, the winemaker will decide whether it should take place before, during, or after fermentation.

Flavour profile

Merlot is grown under different environmental circumstances all over the world, giving the wine a variety of flavours. The red wine has typical soft tannins, a medium acidity, and a medium body. It is normally dry. Traditional merlot frequently has cherry and chocolate notes that catch the nose, as well as some herbs and spices. The palate may be dominated by a variety of dark fruits, including plum, cherry, and blackberry.

Food pairings

Merlot is a versatile wine that goes well with a range of cuisines because of its approachable appeal, low tannin content, and low acidity. Merlot matches well with a wide variety of foods because of the same characteristics that make it so simple to blend with other varietals. Chicken and pork, Italian meals, particularly those with tomato sauce, mushrooms, cheese, etc., are common food partners for merlot.

How to serve Merlot?

It's better to serve red wine, like Merlot, a little cooler, around 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, despite the fact that most of us have been instructed to do so. Too warm of a serving of wine might result in a flabby, soupy, and unpleasant beverage that feels too alcoholic. Refrigerate it for 90 minutes before serving if the wine, like Merlot, has a heavier body. The bottle can then be opened and set on the table, or you can decant it and give the wine 10 minutes to aerate before serving.