Merlot is a well-known grape the world over, vying only with Cabernet Sauvignon as the world’s most-planted black grape. Generally soft and friendly, with medium tannins and a medium body, Merlot’s approachable style makes it a favourite in both blends and single-varietal wines. It also comes in a huge range of quality levels from inexpensive, fruity and juicy, to some of the world’s most expensive, complex and age-worthy bottlings. Its name likely comes from merle, the French word for blackbird, referencing its dark blue-black berries.
TYPICAL FLAVOURS
Plum • Black Cherry • Blackberry • Dark Chocolate
FOOD PAIRING
Rib of Beef • Mushroom Risotto • Duck with Cherry Sauce
THE POWER OF FILM
The 2004 film Sideways, was so influential in deriding Merlot, that sales across the world took a nosedive and some winemakers even took to hiding the name of the grape variety on the bottle!
MERLOT AROUND THE WORLD
Merlot originates in Bordeaux, where it plays a starring role in many of the region’s finest clarets, particularly on the Right Bank, often comprising more than half the blend with Cabernet Sauvignon. With Cabernet Sauvignon’s tight structure and full body, Merlot lends a hand to soften out the palate, reducing tannin levels. It is in Pomerol and Saint-Émilion where it is in its prime.
Beyond Bordeaux, Merlot has achieved global success with significant cultivation in the south of France, Italy (in the North and sometimes in Super Tuscan blends), the United States (notably California), Chile (where for many years it was confused with Carmenère) and South Africa.
Taste the Grape Merlot Half Dozen
There are many factors that contribute to the flavour of a wine, including the winemaking process, but the single most important is the grape variety. Our Taste the Grape Half Dozen offers the opportunity to sample six different styles from across the world, all made from the same grape variety, providing insight into its unique character and versatility.
£130.45 £120
per half dozen
Tanners Merlot, Pays d'Oc 2025
Deliciously soft and fruity with lots of juicy, plum flavours. This is attractive and characterful with plenty of succulent fruit, making it perfect for easy-drinking on its own or with food.
Pair with: Spaghetti Bolognese
£11.50
per bottle
Meerlust Merlot, Stellenbosch 2022
The New World is very far from Parvenu at Meerlust, a stunning estate that has been owned by the Myburgh family since 1756. Their Merlot is rather French in style with its blueberry fruit and elegant style.
Pair with: Slow-Braised Lamb Shanks
£28
per bottle
Sarmentine, Bordeaux, F Thienpont 2021 (organic)
From a small 3 ha vineyard near to Saint-Émilion, this vibrant, organic red is full of round, supple fruit with a delicious herbal note. Its ageing in tank, rather than barrel, emphasises its fruity character.
Pair with:
£14.95
per bottle
