Merlot, a red wine variety, is notorious globally and celebrated for its soft texture and unique flavor profile. Predominantly cultivated in France, it is also known as Bordeleza Belcha or Petit Merle. Merlot is recognizable thanks to its deep blue hue and distinctive characteristics often described as plummy or oaky. In this guide, we discuss Merlot wine’s origins, taste, regions, and perfect pairings, offering insights into its rich history and culinary versatility.
Birds, Names, and Colors
The name “Merlot” originates from the French word meaning “little blackbird.”’ This is thought to be a nod to the grape’s dark bluish color that almost resembles the hue of a blackbird. Though often compared to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot is actually a bit lighter but, deeper than Pinot Noir. Many enthusiasts note that because Merlot is light sensitive, you can recognize it in a glass due to the garnet or orangish tone it leaves along the rim. However, it’s important to add that it tends to lose pigment as the wine ages.
A Glimpse into Merlot’s History
Merlot’s history traces back to 1784 in Bordeaux, France, where it garnered recognition as one of the finest wines produced in the Libournais region. Historical references, such as the Médoc wine article, attribute the wine’s name to a blackbird known for its fondness for the grapes used in its production.
Despite its early success, Merlot faced a setback in the 1970s when Bordeaux authorities temporarily banned the planting of Merlot vines. However, by 1975, the ban was lifted, allowing Merlot to regain its foothold in the region. Over the decades, Merlot’s popularity spread across Europe and beyond, with Italy, Switzerland, and the United States embracing its cultivation and production. Its popularity surged in the United States in the 1990s, fueled by media coverage highlighting its health benefits, including the presence of resveratrol. The early 2000s saw further advancements in Merlot grape research, with the discovery of its second parent in Saint Sulliac, Brittany, leading to the development of various Merlot wine varieties.
The Distinctive Taste of Merlot
The taste of Merlot features a distinctive flavor regularly described as plummy or oaky. It’s also characterized as a dry red wine with a medium-dry profile having a soft texture, subtle acidity, and a modest alcohol level. Connoisseurs note a symphony of flavors when indulging in Merlot, including notes of blackberries, cherries, herbs, cocoa, vanilla, cedar, and plums.
The alcohol percentage of Merlot wines varies depending on the climatic conditions of the region, with cooler climates such as those in France yielding wines with alcohol percentages ranging from 13% to 15%.
Merlot Wine Regions
While France and Italy reign supreme as the primary producers of quality Merlot, the grape thrives in various regions worldwide. Merlot is currently the most planted wine grape in France, Italy’s fifth most planted, and the second most planted in the United States and worldwide.
Countries like Chile, Australia, China, Switzerland, Canada, and Argentina have also embraced Merlot cultivation. Additionally, regions such as California, Washington, Long Island, and Virginia in the United States have emerged as notable hubs for Merlot production, further diversifying its geographical footprint.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
One of the most appealing aspects of Merlot wine is its versatility in pairing with a wide array of dishes. Fruity Merlots from cooler climates, such as those from France and Italy, complement white meats like pork, turkey, and chicken exceptionally well. The subtle nuances of these wines can further enhance modern fare like pizza and burgers.
On the other hand, Merlots from warmer regions with higher alcohol percentages, such as those from Chile, pair extremely well with heartier fare. This includes lamb, beef, bean dishes, and roasted meats. Indulgent snacks like cakes and savory treats also find harmony with the warm, alcoholic notes of these Merlots.
Here are three easy dishes that pair delightfully with Merlot:
Grilled Steak with Roasted Vegetables: A juicy grilled steak served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers complements the rich flavors of Merlot. The savory and slightly charred notes from the steak enhance the wine’s fruitiness, while the roasted vegetables add depth and texture to the pairing.
Margherita Pizza: The simplicity of a Margherita pizza with its fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella cheese, and aromatic basil makes it an excellent companion to Merlot. The tomato acidity in the pizza harmonizes with the wine’s subtle acidity, while the cheese provides a creamy contrast. The herbal notes from the basil further elevate the pairing, creating a delightful combination of flavors.
Mushroom Risotto: Creamy mushroom risotto is a classic dish that pairs beautifully with Merlot. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms complement the wine’s fruitiness, while the creamy texture of the risotto balances its acidity. The richness of this dish enhances the wine’s smooth and velvety characteristics, making it a comforting and indulgent pairing.
4 Interesting Fun Facts About Merlot Wine
- The parent grapes of Merlot are Cabernet Franc and the rare, Magdeleine Noire des Charentes, making Merlot a half-sibling of Cabernet Sauvignon.
- The wine industry has long debated on the effects the movie, Sideways, had on Merlot sales. The lead character, Miles (played by Paul Giamatti) harbored a strong disgust for the wine.
- Merlot is considered one of six noble grape varieties in the professional wine world. The others are Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Noir.
- Though it ripens easily, it’s actually harder to grow than most wine types due to its sensitivity to mildew, drought, botrytis, frost, and cicadellid insects.
With its distinctive and complex profile and history, Merlot continues to captivate wine enthusiasts across the globe. Whether it’s flying solo or featured in a blend, Merlot promises a memorable experience for novice and experienced wine lovers alike.
