This is Why You Should be Drinking More Merlot
Merlot is one of the noble grapes, and plays a critical role in the high-end Bordeaux blends we know and love. It’s absolutely delicious but totally misunderstood!
Merlot has got a bad reputation over the years from mass production of mediocre Merlot wine, and a line in the 2004 movie Sideways denouncing the quality of Merlot. But don’t let either of those things fool you, Merlots can be FANTASTIC when made well! Here’s why you should absolutely be drinking more Merlot:
Believe it or not, some of the finest wines in the world are made with Merlot
Many of the most prized locations in Bordeaux grow Merlot. Merlot is genetically related to Cabernet Sauvignon and is a perfect blending partner to the grape. Merlot’s fruitiness and smoothness perfectly complements the sometimes harsh tannin and vegetal notes found in Cabernet Sauvignon. Bordeaux’s Merlot and Cabernet blends are some of the most sought after wines in the world!
Merlot is popular among grape growers
Merlot is a versatile grape that thrives in many climates. It’s versatility has made it the second most planted grape in the world as it grows beautifully in many regions! However, with this versatility came the mass production problem: as the grape grows so easily, it became a “cash cow” varietal in the 90’s. Its easy-drinking smoothness made it popular among consumers, and the high demand and versatility of the grape pushed growers to plant and produce Merlot in regions outside of its ideal growing conditions. The result was a lot of Merlot, but as the number of grapes produced went up, the quality swiftly went down. While mass produced Merlots are certainly still on the market, they’re totally avoidable! To find a high quality Merlot, look for bottles from Washington’s Columbia Valley, Sonoma County, or find a wine from Bordeaux, as it’s very likely to be comprised of Merlot!
Because it just tastes GOOD!
It has ripe berry, plum, vanilla, and clove flavors, and is known for its silky smooth mouthfeel. Merlots are so easy drinking, often more so than the Cabernets we all know and love! They are dry and medium- to full-bodied wines with moderate acidity and moderate to high alcohol, depending on where it was produced and the winemaker’s style. Merlot’s versatility means it pairs well with a variety of dishes from roasted meats and vegetables to hearty bean dishes to pasta and pizza!
Ready to try some amazing Merlots? Sign up for my Wine Club! I feature outstanding Merlots often, you won’t want to miss it!