Pondering of making an attempt out Merlot wine however unsure the place to begin? Learn our knowledgeable information on typical flavour profiles, tasting notes and fabulous foodie ideas for pairing.
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What’s Merlot wine?
Merlot usually will get dangerous press – wine lovers are inclined to suppose it’s gentle, simple and a bit boring. However there’s extra to this grape than easy-drinking wines. In Saint-Émilion and Pomerol in Bordeaux, it goes into a number of the biggest wines on the planet. It’s planted from Australia to California, and in the precise palms makes excellent wines.
Merlot originated in Bordeaux, however now makes tasty wine all around the southern a part of France. It’s additionally unfold all around the world, particularly in California, South Africa, Chile, Australia, Argentina and Tuscany. Merlot is carefully associated to Cabernet Sauvignon and has comparable flavours however ripens earlier. It’s well-liked in blends, particularly with different varieties native to Bordeaux: Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Merlot from traditional areas gained’t be labelled as such, however most wines from the Proper Financial institution of the Dordogne in Bordeaux similar to Côtes de Castillon and Saint-Émilion will probably be Merlot. Most Merlots are designed to drink younger, however the very best wines from Bordeaux will final for years.
What does Merlot wine style like?
Merlots often have wealthy, plummy fruit with notes of chocolate, voluptuous texture, gentle tannins and comparatively excessive alcohol content material. However, in cooler climates, wines are typically leaner, firmer, extra natural and style rather a lot like Cabernet Sauvignon. In blends, Merlot gives softness, smoothness and fruit. With age, Merlot takes on flavours of spice, tobacco and herbs.
What dishes go nicely with Merlot wine?
Typically, with their tannin and weight, Merlots shouldn’t be served too chilly. About 18C is right. Serve with roast lamb or steak, or strive with roasted root veg similar to in our scrumptious roasted root veg traybake, Chinese language-style dishes or fruit-based recipes together with our implausible grilled nectarine & burrata salad. Merlot-rich wines from Bordeaux go very nicely with mushroom risotto, particularly should you add a splash of the wine when cooking.
