Merlot is a red grape varietal that is beloved around the world. Known for its soft and fruity flavors, Merlot is a popular choice for both blending and single-varietal wines. Let’s explore the history, characteristics, top wine regions and recommended food pairings for Merlot.

History

Merlot is believed to have originated in the Bordeaux region of France, where it has been grown for centuries. It is thought to be a descendant of two other Bordeaux varietals, Cabernet Franc and Magdeleine Noire des Charentes. Merlot was traditionally used as a blending grape in Bordeaux wines, but in recent years it has become popular as a single-varietal wine as well.

Merlot is now grown in many wine regions around the world, including California, Australia, Chile, and Italy. In fact, it is one of the most widely planted grape varietals in the world.

Characteristics

Merlot is known for its soft and fruity flavor profile, with notes of black cherry, plum, and raspberry. It typically has lower tannins than other red varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, which gives it a smoother mouthfeel. The acidity in Merlot can vary depending on where it is grown, but it is generally considered to have medium acidity.

Merlot is often aged in oak barrels, which can impart additional flavors of vanilla, spice, and toast. The aging potential of Merlot varies depending on the climate and region where the grapes are grown, but it is generally considered to be a wine that is meant to be consumed relatively young.

Top Ten Wine Regions for Merlot

1. Bordeaux, France
2. Tuscany, Italy
3. Napa Valley, California
4. Washington State, USA
5. Pomerol, France
6. St-Emilion, France
7. Sonoma County, California
8. Veneto, Italy
9. Colchagua Valley, Chile
10. Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand

Food Pairings

Due to its soft and fruity flavor profile, Merlot pairs well with a variety of foods. Some recommended pairings include:

• Roasted or grilled meats: Merlot is a classic pairing with roasted or grilled meats, such as beef, lamb, or pork.

• Pasta dishes: Merlot pairs well with pasta dishes that are tomato-based or feature hearty meat sauces.

• Soft cheeses: The smooth and fruity flavors of Merlot complement soft cheeses, such as brie, camembert, or goat cheese.

• Dark chocolate: The fruit notes in Merlot can complement the rich flavors of dark chocolate.

Controversy with “Sideways”

The 2004 movie “Sideways” had a significant impact on the popularity of Merlot, albeit not in a positive way. The film tells the story of two friends, Miles and Jack, who embark on a wine-tasting trip to California’s Santa Ynez Valley. Miles, a wine enthusiast and aspiring writer, has a particular disdain for Merlot, which he refers to as “a thin-skinned grape.”

Throughout the movie, Miles expresses his love for Pinot Noir while consistently disparaging Merlot. His infamous line, “I am not drinking any fucking Merlot!” has become synonymous with the film and is often quoted in discussions of wine.

The impact of the film’s portrayal of Merlot was significant. In the years following the release of “Sideways,” Merlot sales declined while Pinot Noir sales skyrocketed. Many wine producers who had previously focused on Merlot saw a decrease in demand and had to adjust their marketing strategies accordingly.

However, it’s worth noting that Miles’ disdain for Merlot was not without reason. In the film, Miles is disappointed when he discovers that the bottle of Merlot he’s been saving for a special occasion is actually a cheap, mass-produced wine. His dislike for Merlot seems to stem more from a dislike of low-quality wines than a genuine dislike of the varietal.

In recent years, Merlot has started to regain some of its popularity. As consumers have become more knowledgeable about wine, they have started to seek out high-quality Merlot from reputable producers. Additionally, many winemakers have begun to experiment with different techniques and blends, creating unique and complex Merlot wines that stand out from the mass-produced bottles that Miles so despised.

While “Sideways” had a significant impact on the perception and popularity of Merlot, it’s important to remember that the movie was a work of fiction. Merlot is a grape varietal that can produce delicious and complex wines when grown and produced correctly. Whether you’re a fan of Merlot or not, it’s worth exploring different styles and producers to discover what makes this varietal so beloved by many wine enthusiasts.

Merlot is a Varietal You Should Get to Know

Merlot is a versatile and widely loved grape varietal that is enjoyed by wine enthusiasts around the world. Its soft and fruity flavors make it a popular choice for pairing with a wide variety of foods, and its lower tannins and smooth mouthfeel make it an accessible wine for many palates. Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of wine, Merlot is a varietal that is definitely worth getting to know.

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