Merlot

The Grape. The Region.

Merlot, which translates to "black bird" in French, is a distant cousin of Cabernet Sauvignon. The Merlot grape has a thinner skin and ripens earlier than Cabernet; however both grapes are indigenous to the Bordeaux region in France. A relative newcomer in California, with plantings dating back to 1979, Merlot now grows in Napa and Sonoma counties, the Central Valley, and Monterey, Mendocino and San Luis Obispo counties.

In the Old World, Merlot is often relegated to less-than-ideal vineyard sites, yielding the optimal growing conditions to its blending partner, Cabernet Sauvignon. In the New World, however – when given optimal growing conditions in warmer climates – Merlot is transformed from an overshadowed blending component to a powerful grape variety capable of producing intense red wines.

Wine Style. Wine Flavor.

Stylistically, Merlot is versatile – either light-bodied, approachable and fruit-driven, or more complex, with bold tannins and aromas of dark fruits and spice. Merlot typically exhibits rich plum flavors, accented with blueberry and cherry notes. The grape’s low acidity gives the wine a smooth mouthfeel.

Sip. Eat.

Pair your favorite Merlot with grilled steak, pork loin or tomato pasta. Taste it with goat cheese at your next wine tasting party.

Discover our selection of Merlot wines in the Barrel Room Wine Shop.