History of Merlot

Merlot is a red wine grape that is believed to have originated in the Bordeaux region of France in the 18th century. The name “Merlot” is thought to derive from the French word for “blackbird,” which is similar to the word for the grape’s deep blue-black color.

Merlot quickly became a popular grape variety in Bordeaux due to its ability to ripen early and produce a wine that was softer and less tannic than other Bordeaux grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot’s popularity grew throughout the 20th century, and it is now one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world.

Today, Merlot is grown in many countries, including France, Italy, the United States, Australia, Chile, and Argentina. Each region has its own unique expression of Merlot, but the grape is known for producing medium-bodied wines with soft tannins, red fruit flavors, and a smooth, velvety texture.

Characteristics of Merlot

Merlot is known for producing wines with a wide range of flavor profiles, depending on the climate and soil in which it is grown. However, there are some general characteristics that are often associated with Merlot:

• Medium to full-bodied
• Soft tannins
• Red fruit flavors, such as cherry, raspberry, and plum
• Herbal notes, such as mint and eucalyptus
• Smooth, velvety texture

Merlot is often used in blends with other grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. When blended, Merlot can add complexity and balance to the wine, as well as soften the harsh tannins of other grapes.

Controversies Surrounding Merlot

Merlot has been the subject of controversy in the wine world for years, largely due to the 2004 movie Sideways, in which one of the main characters famously declares, “I am not drinking Merlot!” After the release of the movie, Merlot sales dropped dramatically, and the grape became known as the “villain of wine.”

But is Merlot really that bad? The truth is that like any other wine grape, Merlot can produce both good and bad wines depending on the skill of the winemaker and the conditions in which it is grown. However, there are some legitimate reasons why some people may dislike Merlot:

• Overproduction: Merlot is a grape that is easy to grow, and as a result, some winemakers may prioritize quantity over quality, leading to bland or uninteresting wines.
• Inferior clones: Not all Merlot clones are created equal. In some cases, inferior clones may be used to produce lower-quality wines.
• Climate and terroir: Merlot is highly influenced by the climate and soil in which it is grown. In some regions, the grape can produce overly ripe, fruit-forward wines that lack acidity and complexity.

Despite these challenges, many winemakers continue to produce exceptional Merlot wines that are complex, elegant, and delicious. When grown in the right conditions and carefully crafted, Merlot can be a wine of great character and depth.

Merlot Around the World

Merlot is grown in many countries around the world, each with its own unique expression of the grape. Some of the most notable regions for Merlot include:

As you can see, Merlot can produce a wide range of flavors depending on the region in which it is grown. Whether you prefer a medium-bodied Bordeaux or a full-bodied California Merlot, there is a style of Merlot out there for everyone.

Food Pairing with Merlot

Merlot is a versatile wine that can pair well with a wide range of foods. Some of the most popular foods to pair with Merlot include:

• Roasted chicken or pork
• Beef stews or braises
• Grilled vegetables
• Hard cheeses, such as cheddar or gouda
• Dark chocolate

When pairing Merlot with food, it’s important to consider the flavors and textures of the wine and the dish. Lighter Merlots with high acidity can pair well with grilled or roasted meats, while fuller-bodied Merlots can stand up to heartier stews and braises. Cheeses and chocolate can also bring out the fruit flavors in Merlot and complement its smooth texture.

Merlot: The Misunderstood Grape

While Merlot may have a bad reputation among some wine drinkers, the truth is that it can produce some truly exceptional wines. When grown in the right conditions and carefully crafted by skilled winemakers, Merlot can be a wine of great complexity and depth, with flavors ranging from red fruit and herbs to dark chocolate and coffee.

So the next time someone tells you that they “don’t drink Merlot,” consider introducing them to a high-quality bottle from a reputable producer. They might just be surprised by how delicious it can be.