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Merlot wine: What makes this grape special?
If you're interested in the world of wine and learning about the nuances and flavors of each grape variety, you'll love this post.
Today we're talking about the Merlot grape, which you may be familiar with because it's frequently used in Spain to make wine, although it's not native to our country.
Merlot is one of the most popular and renowned grape varieties in the wine world, especially famous for the smoothness and elegance of the wines it produces.
Originally from the Bordeaux region of France, it has spread globally, adapting to different climates and soils, making it one of the most widely cultivated grapes in various parts of the world, such as California, Argentina, Italy, and Chile.
But what makes the Merlot grape so distinctive? Let's tell you what sets it apart from other varieties.
Characteristics of the Merlot grape
The Merlot grape is known for its large, dark-colored berries, ranging in color from deep red to purple.
Its relatively thick skin gives it a natural resistance to harsh weather conditions and makes it less susceptible to disease.
Merlot grapes are very juicy, allowing for wines with a smooth texture, deep flavor, and relatively low acidity.
One of the most notable characteristics of the Merlot grape is its ability to ripen quickly. This makes it an excellent variety for winemaking, as, compared to other grapes, it ripens earlier, allowing for early harvesting and rapid wine production.
This is a matter of practicality, as it allows for winemaking more frequently and quickly, and its flavor is highly appreciated.
How to differentiate it by its flavor?
Where to grow Merlot grapes?
It is a highly adaptable grape and is grown in many wine-producing regions around the world, which has contributed to its popularity.
It is a frequent choice for winemakers as it withstands climate changes very well without compromising the harvest.
Its ability to thrive in somewhat cold and temperate climates has led to its establishment in places like Napa Valley, California; Mendoza, Argentina; and central Chile.
In France, the Merlot grape is primarily grown in the Bordeaux region, where it is used in both varietal wines and blends, especially in the famous Bordeaux blend, where it is combined with varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
In this case, Merlot provides softness and fruit to the wine, while Cabernet Sauvignon brings structure and complexity.
And in Spain? It is most common in the Ribera del Duero region and Aragón.
Merlot in winemaking
One of the Merlot grape's outstanding characteristics is its versatility in the winemaking process.
Winemakers can use it to create a variety of wine styles, from young, fresh, and fruity wines to more complex, aged wines that develop greater structure and depth of flavor.
The Merlot grape is commonly used in blends, especially with Cabernet Sauvignon, as the two varieties complement each other well: Merlot adds softness, while Cabernet Sauvignon brings strength and longevity to the wine.
In its younger version, Merlot is typically less tannic (a tannic wine is one that has more tannins, resulting in astringency, dryness, and bitterness in its flavor) and more approachable, making it an excellent choice for those just beginning to explore the world of wine.
Higher-quality Merlots, especially those aged in oak barrels, exhibit greater complexity, with notes of spices, tobacco, and chocolate that enrich the tasting experience.
How to pair a Merlot wine?
After all this explanation, let's get to the point: how should you pair a Merlot?
Merlot wine, due to its smoothness and fruity flavors, is very versatile for pairing.
Merlot wines pair well with a wide variety of dishes, such as roasted red meats, meat pies, grilled chicken, and pasta dishes with sauces that have a very strong, mushroom-like flavor.
It's also ideal with soft cheeses like Camembert and Brie.
If you want to discover all the nuances of a Merlot wine for yourself, here are some of our recommendations.
