Merlot is a popular wine varietal that is grown in many different regions around the world, each with its own unique set of growing conditions, climate, and soil composition. This has led to the creation of distinct styles of Merlot, each with its own unique flavor profile, aroma, and character. Here's a breakdown of some of the most popular Merlot-growing regions and the distinct styles of Merlot that they produce:
-
Bordeaux, France: Bordeaux is one of the original homes of Merlot, and produces some of the most highly-regarded Merlots in the world. Bordeaux Merlots tend to have a full-bodied, rich and velvety texture, with flavors of black fruit, chocolate, and sometimes a hint of spice.
-
Napa Valley, California: Napa Valley is a well-known wine region in California that is famous for its full-bodied, rich and fruit-forward Merlots. Napa Valley Merlots are known for their intense flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, with a subtle smoky finish.
- Pomerol, France: Pomerol is a small wine-growing region in Bordeaux, France that is known for producing some of the most highly sought after Merlots in the world. Pomerol Merlots are known for their silky texture, with rich, juicy flavors of black fruit and a touch of vanilla.
-
Washington State: Washington State is a rapidly growing wine region in the United States that is known for producing bold, fruit-forward Merlots. Washington State Merlots tend to be full-bodied, with flavors of dark fruit, plum, and a hint of spice.
-
Tuscany, Italy: Tuscany is a well-known wine-growing region in Italy that is famous for its full-bodied, fruit-forward Merlots. Tuscany Merlots tend to have a rich and velvety texture, with flavors of black fruit, dark chocolate, and a touch of spice.
- Chile: Chile is a wine-growing region in South America that is known for producing full-bodied, rich and fruit-forward Merlots. Chilean Merlots tend to have a bold, spicy character, with flavors of black fruit, vanilla, and a hint of spice.
Each of these Merlot-growing regions has its own unique style and character, and offers wine lovers a chance to explore the many different faces of Merlot. Whether you prefer a bold and spicy Chilean Merlot, or a rich and velvety Bordeaux Merlot, there is a Merlot for everyone.
As a wine, Merlot is soft and velvety with notes of plum, cassis, and other dark fruit flavors as well as herbal notes of pine or black tea. For a red wine, Merlot does mature pretty quickly, but there are some examples that can spend decades in the bottle developing.
Shop at BuyWinesOnline for the best Merlot wine price and get the wines delivered to your door!
Frequently Asked Questions about Merlot
Below are some common questions about the Merlot red wine for sale at Buy Wines Online. How does Merlot Taste? Is Merlot a dry wine or is Merlot a sweet wine? Learn below! For wine education, serving suggestions, recipes and more, head to our blog.
What is Merlot Wine?
Merlot is a red wine grape variety that is known for its softness and fruitiness. It is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world, and is especially popular in France, particularly in the Bordeaux region, where it is often blended with other grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot wines are typically medium-bodied, with flavors that range from red and black fruits like cherry, plum, and blackberry, to earthy notes like tobacco and leather. The wine is generally considered to be more approachable and less tannic than Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes it a popular choice for those who are new to red wines. Merlot can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods, including red meat, pasta dishes, and cheese.
Is Merlot Sweet?
Merlot is not typically a sweet wine. Merlot wines can range from dry to semi-sweet depending on the specific winemaking style, but they are generally not considered to be sweet wines. Some Merlot wines may have a slightly fruity taste, but this is not the same as being sweet. The level of sweetness in a Merlot wine can also be affected by the region it is grown in, the grape ripeness, and the winemaking techniques used.
What is the Best Merlot Wine?
Some highly rated and well-known California merlots include:
Rutherford Hill Merlot 2019: This wine is a blend of 88% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Syrah. It has a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of black cherry, blackberry, and vanilla.
Emmolo Merlot 2019: This Merlot has a deep ruby color and a complex aroma of dark fruit, spice, and oak. It has a smooth, velvety texture and flavors of blackberry, plum, and cocoa.
Bogle Merlot 2020: This wine has a soft and smooth texture with flavors of black cherry, vanilla, and toasty oak. It is a medium-bodied Merlot that pairs well with a variety of foods.
Charles Smith Velvet Devil Merlot 2021: This Merlot has a deep purple color and a bold, fruity flavor with notes of dark berries, chocolate, and coffee. It has a smooth finish and pairs well with grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
These wineries have established themselves as producers of high-quality merlot, and their wines are often sought after by wine connoisseurs. It's recommended to try a few different merlots from California to find your personal favorite.
Get that Merlot Wine Taste for Less at BuyWinesOnline
From Napa Valley to Argentina, you can count on us to bring you the best wines at prices you'll love. Peruse our inventory for your favorite varietals or discover something new. Fill your cellar with premium collectible wines or stock up for a party with just a few clicks of your mouse. Shop for Merlot varietal wines today!