Merlot wine is one of the ten international varieties and is the second most popular after the famous Cabernet Sauvignon. However, these wines should not be contrasted – rather, we should talk about close kinship and close friendship. The tannic and bright Cabernet is smoothed out by the soft Merlot, acquires a silky velvety, becomes “rounded”. These two varieties often coexist in blends, and in combination with the third “brother” – Cabernet Franc, form the famous Bordeaux blend – the standard of perfect balance in wine.
The name of the grape comes from the French word merle – “blackbird”. Either because the color of the berry resembles this bird, or because the thrushes themselves are not averse to eating juicy large berries.
Merlot’s homeland is the French province of Bordeaux, but the unpretentious variety has successfully spread throughout the world. Now such grapes are grown in Italy, Argentina, Chile, Israel, the USA and other countries where the climate allows for viticulture.
Merlot grapes are apparently the result of crossing Cabernet Franc with some unknown variety. Today it seems that Merlot wines have always been around, but in fact they are only about 300 years old – the first mentions of such drinks are found in manuscripts of the 1990th century, and the peak of popularity came in the XNUMXs.
At the end of the XNUMXth century, the demand for Merlot increased incredibly, it was necessary to urgently increase the planting area, as a result, low-quality grassy wine appeared on the market from unripe grapes grown in unsuitable conditions. Other manufacturers, on the contrary, have strengthened quality control, began to carefully calibrate the proportions and follow the technology. The purchase of Merlot turned into a kind of lottery and, unfortunately, the drink was compromised for some time.
Even now, dry red wine Merlot is considered the choice of beginners and amateurs who are not versed in quality alcohol. Professional sommeliers often look down on Merlot – and in vain, Chateau Petrus – one of the most expensive and exclusive wines in the world – consists almost entirely of this grape variety. The share of Cabernet Franc is only 5%, and winemakers strive to get rid of even this tiny impurity.
The taste of merlot wine
Merlot is called ladies’ wine. It is believed that this variety ideally smooths out the excessive harshness of other wines, and is perfect for blending. It turns out a soft, “round” drink with a rich bouquet and light aroma. Taste largely depends on the area in which the vineyard is located. The warmer the area, the sweeter and richer the berries will be, but in cool regions Merlot matures into a fine and delicate wine. Too hot climate gives the variety a cloying taste.
The main fruity notes of this dry red wine are: cherry, raspberry, blackberry, plum. After aging in an oak barrel, the flavors of old leather, tobacco, licorice, dark chocolate, coffee, smoke, truffles and pepper appear in the bouquet.
Types of Merlot
Usually, this name means either a varietal table wine – from only one grape variety – or a blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Most often, this is a dry red wine of the middle price segment, intended for daily consumption (for example, at dinner) without a special festive occasion.
However, non-standard variations of this drink can also be found on the market.
Caberlo A hybrid of Cabernet and Merlot. Produced in only one tiny estate in Tuscany, aged in oak barrels for almost two years, then bottled and sent to “ripen” in the cellar for another 24 months. Aromas of blueberries, spices, and espresso coffee. It has a subtle tannic aftertaste and a smooth fruity aftertaste.
White Merlot. Produced in the Italian region of Ticino. The secret is that the grape juice is quickly separated from the pulp, and the drink does not have time to color. The result is a real wine-making miracle: a white wine made from dark grapes.
How to drink merlot wine
Merlot is drunk from transparent glass glasses so that you can admire the play of colors and watch how beautifully the drink flows down the walls. Wine should be served slightly chilled to 16 degrees, enjoy it in small sips, savoring the bouquet.
This is a table wine, it goes well with almost any menu. Meat – from cold ham to grilled ribs, vegetable stews, beans, spicy and semi-hard cheeses, any poultry and game. Merlot matures quickly, it does not have to be kept in the cellar for years, it can be opened young.
Merlot grapes: properties
Despite the “silver medal” in popularity, this grape variety is the undisputed leader in terms of planting area. There is a simple and logical explanation for this: merlot easily takes root in new weather conditions, grows well on clay soils, ripens early (and this often saves the grower from ruin and shame if other varieties have failed), is not afraid of rain, frost and drought.
Clay soils with a pronounced transition between day and night temperatures are considered ideal for Merlot. This results in a balanced and elegant drink.
Moreover, Merlot grapes have good immunity to common grape diseases and berry rot. It is difficult to spoil it – even an inexperienced winemaker can get a decent wine that is not ashamed to offer to friends and sell at a local fair.
Large dark blue berries with thin skins are not as intense in color as Cabernet. This variety is sweeter than its popular counterpart, and the content of malic acid in it is lower. The yield of Merlot is so high that the winegrowers have to artificially restrain it so that the quantity does not affect the quality.
