Merlot

Merlot is a black-skinned Vitis vinifera variety from France. It is also called Picard and Langon. Its name, a diminutive of the French word for blackbird, first appears near the end of the 18th century. DNA studies show Merlot is the offspring of Cabernet Franc and Magdeleine Noire des Charentes, a crossing of two Vitis vinifera parents. It was long a supporting player in Bordeaux, then expanded worldwide in recent decades.

It is now one of the most widely planted red grapes globally as of 2023, with France growing roughly 47 percent of the total. Merlot does well in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Italy, Spain, Australia.

In the glass, Merlot offers medium tannins and body, with flavours of cherry, raspberry, plum, blackberry, and chocolate. Bordeaux-style Merlot gives red fruit and moderate alcohol, while the international style is fuller-bodied, higher in alcohol and more dark-fruited. It is a classic partner to Cabernet Sauvignon and is the main variety in many Right Bank Bordeaux wines.