Is Merlot Really Making a Comeback in 2021? Find Out Now!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- A Brief History of Merlot
- The Fall and Rise of Merlot
- Tasting Characteristics of Merlot
- Popular Regions for Merlot
- Food Pairings with Merlot
- In Conclusion
- FAQs
Introduction
When it comes to wine, there are numerous varieties and types to choose from. While some hold a special place in the hearts of wine enthusiasts, others may not quite make the cut. One such wine is Merlot. In recent years, this soft and fruity red wine has been pushed to the back burner, overtaken by trendy newcomers like Malbec and Pinot Noir. However, some are speculating that Merlot may be making a comeback in 2021. In this blog post, we explore the revival of this classic wine and take a closer look at what makes it so popular among wine lovers.
A Brief History of Merlot
Merlot is a dark blue-colored wine grape that is believed to have originated in the Bordeaux region of France. The name “Merlot” is thought to have come from the French word “merle,” which means blackbird, as the grape is often a favorite snack of these birds.
Merlot grapes are known for their softness, making them easy to drink and enjoy. With flavors ranging from plums and blackberry to chocolate and coffee, Merlot is also incredibly versatile, making it a favorite among wine drinkers worldwide.
The Fall and Rise of Merlot
Around the turn of the century, Merlot was one of the most popular wines in the United States, often outselling the ever-popular Cabernet Sauvignon. However, this all changed with the release of the movie Sideways, which portrayed Merlot in a less-than-flattering light. In the film, the main character, a wine enthusiast, declares that he will not drink Merlot and instead favors Pinot Noir. This caused a decline in the popularity of Merlot, and many wineries began to phase out their Merlot offerings.
However, in recent years, Merlot has seen somewhat of a comeback. As wine drinkers become more adventurous and seek out unique and interesting wines, winemakers are once again turning their attention to this classic grape. With new winemaking techniques, Merlot is being produced in a more complex and nuanced way, making it a perfect candidate for the new era of wine lovers.
Tasting Characteristics of Merlot
Merlot is known for its softness and approachability. It is generally a medium-bodied wine with moderate tannins and low acidity. The flavors in Merlot can range from fresh red fruit like cherries and raspberries to black fruit like blackberries and plums. The wine can also have secondary flavors like chocolate, mocha, and cedar, making it an incredibly versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various foods.
Merlot can be aged in oak barrels, which can impart additional flavors like vanilla and toast. However, not all Merlots are oak-aged, so it’s essential to read the label to see if oak was used in the winemaking process.
Popular Regions for Merlot
Merlot is widely planted in many wine regions around the world. However, some regions are known for producing exceptional Merlot that stands out from the rest. Here are a few of the most popular regions:
| Region | Notable Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Bordeaux, France | Known for producing rich and opulent Merlots with flavors of dark fruit and earthy notes. |
| Napa Valley, California | Produces fruit-forward Merlots with flavors of black cherry, chocolate, and vanilla. |
| Tuscany, Italy | Produces Merlots with high acidity and flavors of red fruit like cherry and raspberry. |
| Washington State, USA | Produces Merlots with moderate tannins and flavors of black fruit, chocolate, and coffee. |
Of course, this is just a small sampling of the many regions around the world that produce Merlot. Other regions include Chile, Argentina, and South Africa, to name just a few!
Food Pairings with Merlot
Merlot is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. Its soft tannins and fruit-forward nature make it a perfect match for a wide range of dishes. Here are just a few examples of foods that pair well with Merlot:
- Roast beef or lamb
- Grilled steak or pork chops
- Meat-based pasta dishes
- Hard cheeses like Cheddar or Parmesan
- Dark chocolate desserts
Of course, these are just a few examples. Merlot can be paired with a wide range of foods, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect pairing!
Why Merlot is Making a Comeback
There are many reasons why Merlot is making a comeback in 2021. For one, wine drinkers are becoming more adventurous and open to trying new things. With the rise of wine tourism and the ability to order wine online, people are more likely to seek out unique and interesting wines, including Merlot.
Additionally, winemakers are putting a renewed focus on Merlot. With new production techniques, winemakers are able to produce more complex and nuanced Merlots that deliver a unique and exciting drinking experience.
So if you’re a fan of Merlot or are looking to branch out and try new wines, now is the perfect time to give this classic grape another chance. Who knows, you may just find your new favorite wine!
FAQs
Q: What makes Merlot different from other red wines?
A: Merlot is known for its softness and fruit-forward nature, which sets it apart from other red wines that can be more tannic and acidic. Merlot is generally a medium-bodied wine with moderate tannins and low acidity.
Q: Will Merlot continue to grow in popularity?
A: While it’s impossible to predict the future, Merlot is certainly experiencing a resurgence in popularity. With new winemaking techniques and a renewed focus on this classic grape, it’s likely that Merlot will continue to be a popular choice for wine drinkers in the years to come.
Q: What foods pair well with Merlot?
A: Merlot is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. It pairs well with a wide range of dishes, including roasted meats, grilled steak, hard cheese, and dark chocolate.
Q: What are some popular regions for Merlot?
A: Merlot is widely planted in many wine regions around the world. Some of the most popular regions include Bordeaux, France, Napa Valley, California, Tuscany, Italy, and Washington State, USA.
Q: Is Merlot a good choice for beginners?
A: Yes! Merlot is generally an easy-to-drink wine with softer tannins and low acidity, making it a perfect choice for those new to wine or those looking for a more approachable wine.
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