Merlot

The merlot grape is capable of making wines of great complexity in the best growing regions and unremarkable 'jug' wines when grown in warm region where it typically yields a high tonnage of grapes per acre. Used as both a blending grape and bottled as a single varietal wine, merlot is one of the most popular red wine varietals available.

The most famous merlot based wine comes from the right bank of of Bordeaux's Gironde River. Although it is the most widely planted varietal in Bordeaux, only the wines of St. Emilion and Pomerol give merlot star status. Pomerol's Chateau Petrus is one of the most highly sought after and expensive wines on the planet and is over 90% merlot based. It is used as a blending grape throughout bordeaux to add 'softness' to cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc.

Typical aromas include plum, cassis, black cherry, violet and if picked before being fully ripened, bell pepper and green olive. Merlot's tannins tend toward softness which is why it a good accompaniment to the harsher tannins of cabernet.

Grown in every wine growing country in the world, the best examples can be found in Sonoma, Carneros, Napa and the Santa Cruz Mountains. There are good examples of merlot from nearly every region depending on site and clonal selection.

Our Favorites:

Chateau La Fleur Montagne Saint Emilion
Great nose of red fruit and spice with excellent balance and round tannins. Great merlot for the price.
($15)

2005 Schug Sonoma Valley Merlot
Cherry and herbs balanced with oak. Long finish.
($25)

2005 Stags' Leap Winery Napa Merlot
Juicy cherry, bramble and anise finishing with hints of dark chocolate.
($27)

Trek Wine 2006 Alexander Valley Chalk Hill Merlot
Dark cherry, cassis and spice. Great new winery.
($27)

More Grape Varieties