Varietals - Merlot

Merlot is one of the most popular red wines in the United States and abroad.  Native to France, the Merlot grape is one of the top contributors to Bordeaux wines.  Merlot grapes have a smooth, juicy flavor that usually imparts notes of berry, plum, and currant to wines.  The grape is planted widely in France, Italy, and the US. 

The history of this popular grape goes all the way back to first century France.  Large and thin-skinned, Merlot grapes are a precarious crop since they are highly susceptible to frost and bird related damage.  Despite this delicacy, Merlot grapes are heartier than the equally popular Cabernet Sauvignon and offer a smoother, lighter character.

Merlot is lower in tannins than Cabernet Sauvignon, and is best enjoyed slightly below room temperature.  Some of the best Merlot wines are amazingly affordable thanks to increased planting of Merlot grapes in new locations like Argentina and Chile.  For some of the best options at a great price, try the 2005 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot for $11, the 2004 Chateau Tour de Mirambeau Bordeaux Superieur for $13, the 2008 Casa Lapostolle Rapel Valley Merlot for $14, or the 2006 Delicato Merlot for $18.

Because the flavor profile of a Merlot can vary from one producer to the next, pairings can differ and should depend on personal preference above all else.  However, in general Merlot pairs well with rich meats like beef or duck, salmon or tuna, or crockpot wild rice with mushrooms.

There is also a less well known White Merlot which is created using the Merlot grape but with a process similar to White Zinfandel in which the contact between the wine and the grape skin is extremely limited.  Originally from the French Languedoc region, the wine was created to profit from the popularity of White Zinfandel and is a fantastic summer wine.  Some of the best options include the 2003 Casa Vinicola White Merlot, the 2005 Reeder Mesa Vineyards Wild Rose,  the 2007 West Hanover Winery White Merlot, or the 2008 Range Vineyard Oklahoma White Merlot.

Lighter than it’s red counterpart, White Merlot is an off-dry wine best paired with steamed vegetables, delicate fish, seasoned olives with sharp provolone, or pasta with shrimp tomato sauce.

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