Join Our Newsletter:   
First Name:  
Email:  
  

     

Merlot Grapes - Red Wine At Its Best

Merlot Grapes are a variety of wine grape which used in the making of red wine. Merlot grapes are mostly commonly used by themselves to make Merlot Wine but they are also used in association with other grapes to make some fantastic wine blends. Merlot grapes are grown in many regions around the world such as France, Italy, Bulgaria, Romania, Australia, New Zealand, California, Washington and British Columbia. (see History of Merlot)

A Merlot wine can best be described as being a medium bodied wine that is not overly acidic and is therefore deemed to be easy to drink and perfect for beginners to red wine drinking. White wine drinkers often don't appreciate red wines very much but Merlot wine is usually the exception to this rule.

Some of the many common flavors associated with wine made from Merlot grapes include raisins, blackberries, chocolate and cherries. A wine made with Merlot grapes can also be spicy and peppery or can even have a liquorice taste and aroma. Merlot grapes that are grown in cooler climates tend to have vegetable flavors like green beans or asparagus. Merlot wines are usually an excellent accompaniment to lamb, beef and can also pair well with sharp cheeses and most types of chocolate. (see Wine and Chocolate Pairing and Wine and Cheese Pairing)

Merlot grapes are probably best when grown in a consistently cool climate as opposed to a very hot and dry climate. Some of the best regions to grow Merlot grapes are that of the Bordeaux region in France and the north-eastern parts of Italy such as Veneto and Friuli. (see History of Merlot) British Columbia is another excellent region for growing Merlot grapes due to its mild summers and damp cool soil.

When choosing a Merlot wine it should be noted that Merlot grapes grown in Italy usually make very light and easy to drink wines which are ideal for the beginning wine drinker. Merlot grapes grown in France and California tend to make heavier wines made for those who are already enjoy Merlot wine. Wines made from Merlot grapes are very popular and one of the most sought after wines due to its compatibility with such a large number of foods. (see Wine and Food Pairing)

It is strongly recommended that if you are new to wine drinking (or only drink white wines) and you wish to experience the taste of red wine to choose a Merlot wine as they are generally easier to drink that most other red wine varieties. And, Merlot wines are also very good value. (see also Merlot Wine Recommendations, White Merlot and Napa Merlot.)

Are you interested in growing your own grapes at home? If so, I can personally recommend this book by Danie Wium. I recently began growing my own grapes for use in winemaking and this book was an invaluable tool along the way.