Is Merlot Really the Most Underrated Wine of All Time?
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History of Merlot
- Myths About Merlot
- Tasting Notes of Merlot
- Food Pairing with Merlot
- Value for Money
- Merlot – Not Just a Sideway Trend
- FAQs
Introduction
Merlot is a widely known red wine variety, but unfortunately, it has somehow earned a bad reputation over the years. Some wine enthusiasts disregard merlot as just a “sideway trend,” with a reputation that has been greatly affected by the movie Sideways, which was released in 2004 – where a wine aficionado played by Paul Giamatti declared how much he disliked the variety. But is this reputation justified? Is merlot really that bad?
The short answer is no. Merlot is not a bad wine, but it is one of the most underrated wines in the world. It is a wine that has fallen out of fashion, and it is not getting the love and respect that it deserves. While cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir have been hogging the limelight, merlot has been overshadowed and overlooked. So, let’s debunk the myths and find out whether merlot is really the most underrated wine of all time.
History of Merlot
Merlot is believed to have originated in Bordeaux, France, in the 18th century. It is a dark blue grape that is used to make red wine. The name ‘merlot’ is derived from the French word ‘merle,’ which means ‘blackbird.’ It is believed that the grape got the name because the birds love to eat the grapes and turn their beaks purple.
Merlot has always been a popular grape in Bordeaux and is one of the primary varieties used in the making of the region’s most famous wines. Outside France, merlot is widely planted all over the world. In addition to France, it is also grown in many other countries, including Italy, Spain, Chile, Argentina, Australia, and the United States.
Myths About Merlot
One of the biggest myths about merlot is that it is a weak wine. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The truth is that merlot is one of the most versatile and complex wines in the world. It has a wide range of flavors and aromas, and it can be made in many different styles.
Another myth about merlot is that it is not suitable for aging. While it is true that merlot is not as long-lived as some other red wines, such as cabernet sauvignon, it can still be aged for several years. Good quality merlot can age well for up to ten years, and sometimes even longer, depending on the winemaking style and the vintage.
Tasting Notes of Merlot
The flavor profile of merlot can vary depending on the region, climate, and winemaking style. However, there are some common tasting notes that are associated with the grape. Here are some of them:
| Tasting Notes | Description |
|---|---|
| Black cherry | Rich and sweet, with a hint of spice |
| Plum | Soft and fleshy, with a slight bitterness |
| Mocha | Smooth and velvety, with a coffee-like flavor |
| Cocoa | Soft and creamy, with a hint of chocolate |
| Tobacco | Earthy and spicy, with a slightly bitter finish |
Food Pairing with Merlot
Merlot is a versatile wine that can pair well with a variety of foods. Its medium body and moderate tannins make it an ideal wine to pair with lighter meats, such as chicken and pork, as well as some seafood dishes. It can also pair well with roasted vegetables and firm cheeses.
Due to its fruitiness, merlot can also pair well with sweet and spicy dishes. For example, a spicy Thai chicken curry or a sweet and sour pork would pair well with a glass of merlot. The wine’s tannins help to cut through the richness of the dish, while its fruitiness helps to balance the spiciness and sweetness.
Value for Money
Merlot is often overlooked because it is seen as an inferior wine. However, this is not the case. Merlot can offer excellent value for money, especially if you are looking for a good quality wine without breaking the bank.
While some top-end merlots can be expensive, there are many affordable options available. Many merlots from Chile, Argentina, and Australia, for example, offer excellent value for money, as they are made with the same grape variety as the more expensive wines from Bordeaux, but at a fraction of the cost.
Merlot – Not Just a Sideway Trend
Merlot has earned an undeserved bad reputation over the years due to myths and movies such as Sideways. However, merlot is a fantastic and underrated wine that deserves much more attention. Its versatility, complex flavors, and value for money make it a great option for any wine enthusiast looking for something different.
So, next time you are in the wine section of your local store, don’t be afraid to give merlot a try. You might be surprised at just how good it is.
FAQs
Is merlot a dry wine?
Merlot can be dry or sweet, depending on the winemaking style. However, most merlots are dry.
What is the alcohol content of merlot?
The alcohol content of merlot can vary between 12% and 15%, depending on the winemaking style and the vintage.
What is the difference between merlot and cabernet sauvignon?
While both merlot and cabernet sauvignon are made with red grapes and are often blended together, there are some key differences. Merlot is softer and less tannic than cabernet sauvignon, with a fruitier flavor profile. Cabernet sauvignon, on the other hand, is more full-bodied and tannic, with a longer aging potential.
What is the best temperature to serve merlot?
Merlot is best served at room temperature, which is around 60-65 °F (15-18 °C).
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