Merlot

Merlot is a well-known grape the world over. Generally soft and friendly, it offers flavours of ripe plum, black cherry, and blackberry, often with hints of dark chocolate or savoury beef stock. Its approachable style makes it a favourite in both blends and single-varietal wines, where it fleshes out the middle palate. 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. Its name likely comes from merle, the French word for blackbird, referencing its dark, blue-black berries. Today, Merlot is widely planted globally, with significant cultivation in France, Italy, the United States (notably California), Chile, and Australia.

Photo credit: California Wine Institute