Merlot is one of the most well-known and widely loved wine varieties across the world. For anyone who has just started their journey into wine, or even for seasoned wine enthusiasts, one of the common questions that might arise is: Is Merlot red or white? This article will dive deep into answering that question, as well as exploring the characteristics of Merlot, including its origins, flavor profile, and how it is produced. We’ll also touch on Merlot’s versatility, how to serve it, and ideal food pairings. By the end, you’ll have a thorough understanding of Merlot, its place in the wine world, and its enduring appeal.
What Is Merlot?
A Popular Grape Variety
Merlot is primarily a red wine that is made from the Merlot grape. The grape itself is dark-skinned, and its juice is used to produce one of the world’s most popular red wines. When people refer to Merlot, they almost always mean the red wine variety.
The Merlot grape is native to the Bordeaux region of France, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Today, Merlot is grown in many wine-producing regions across the world, including California, Chile, Italy, Australia, and South Africa. Its adaptability to different climates and soils makes it one of the most versatile grapes for winemaking.
How Merlot Got Its Name
The word “Merlot” is derived from the French word “merle,” meaning blackbird. The name is thought to either reference the dark color of the grape or the fact that blackbirds love to eat these grapes straight off the vine.
Is Merlot Red or White?
Merlot Is a Red Wine
To put it simply, Merlot is a red wine. It is made from red or black grapes, which give the wine its deep, rich color. The process of making Merlot involves fermenting the juice of the grapes with the skins, seeds, and stems, which allows the wine to take on the pigments, tannins, and other compounds that give it the typical characteristics of red wine.
When we think about wine types, there are three main categories: red, white, and rosé. Merlot firmly falls into the red category due to its grape variety and the winemaking process. There is no such thing as a white Merlot, although some wineries produce a rosé-style Merlot, which is much lighter in color and flavor but still not a white wine.
Can You Make White Wine from Merlot Grapes?
Technically, it is possible to make white wine from Merlot grapes by separating the juice from the skins immediately after pressing. This process prevents the pigments from the grape skins from coloring the wine. However, this is extremely rare, and the result would not be considered Merlot as we know it. The unique characteristics that make Merlot recognizable—its lush fruit flavors, smooth tannins, and deep color—come from the interaction between the juice and the grape skins during fermentation.
See Also: What Type of Wine is Merlot? One of the World’s Most Popular Wines
The Characteristics of Red Merlot
The Color of Merlot
Merlot wines typically range from a medium to deep ruby red in color. The shade of red can vary depending on the region where the Merlot is produced, the age of the wine, and how it has been aged. Younger Merlots often exhibit a more vibrant red hue, while older Merlots may develop a garnet or brick-like color as they age.
The Taste and Texture of Merlot
Merlot is known for being smooth, soft, and approachable, which makes it an ideal wine for beginners and seasoned wine drinkers alike. The wine is typically medium-bodied to full-bodied and is prized for its silky texture and velvety tannins. Merlot is often described as having a round mouthfeel, which makes it easy to drink even for those who may not typically enjoy bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Common Tasting Notes
The flavor profile of Merlot can vary depending on where it’s grown and how it’s aged, but some common tasting notes include:
Fruits: Merlot is often characterized by its rich, ripe fruit flavors, including black cherry, plum, raspberry, and blackberry. In warmer climates, Merlot can also take on jammy or fruit-forward characteristics.
Spice and Oak: Merlot that has been aged in oak barrels may also display flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and clove. The oak aging process can add complexity to the wine, making it more layered and rich.
Earthy and Herbal Notes: In some Merlots, especially those from cooler climates like Bordeaux, you might detect subtle earthy notes such as tobacco, graphite, and leather. These wines often exhibit more restrained fruit flavors and higher acidity.
Merlot in Different Regions
Old World vs. New World Merlot
Merlot is grown in various regions around the globe, and the wine’s flavor profile can vary significantly depending on whether it comes from an Old World or New World region.
Old World Merlot: This term typically refers to Merlot produced in traditional European regions, such as France and Italy. These wines tend to have higher acidity, moderate alcohol levels, and a more subtle or structured flavor. Bordeaux is the most famous region for Old World Merlot, where it is often blended with other grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
New World Merlot: Merlot from regions like California, Chile, and Australia tends to be fruitier, riper, and bolder in flavor. These wines typically have lower acidity and softer tannins, making them more approachable when young. New World Merlots are often praised for their accessibility and fruit-forward characteristics.
French Merlot
In Bordeaux, Merlot plays a key role in many famous blends, particularly on the Right Bank. The wines from this region are some of the most renowned in the world, with Pomerol and Saint-Émilion producing exceptional Merlot-based wines. These wines are typically more structured and age-worthy, often featuring earthy, leathery, and tobacco-like notes alongside fruit flavors.
California Merlot
California is another significant region for Merlot, with many producers creating single-varietal Merlot wines as well as blends. The warm climate of California produces wines with ripe fruit flavors like plum, blackberry, and blueberry. These wines tend to be softer, with more approachable tannins, and are often ready to drink sooner than their Old World counterparts.
How Merlot Is Made
The Winemaking Process
The production of Merlot follows the traditional process of making red wine. Here is a basic overview of the steps involved:
Harvesting: The Merlot grapes are harvested when they reach optimal ripeness, which can vary depending on the climate and the style of wine being produced. In cooler regions, grapes may be left on the vine longer to develop more complex flavors, while in warmer climates, they may be harvested earlier to retain acidity.
Crushing and Fermentation: After the grapes are harvested, they are crushed to release their juice. The skins, seeds, and stems are left in contact with the juice during fermentation, which is what gives Merlot its red color and tannic structure.
Aging: Merlot can be aged in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, depending on the winemaker’s preference. Aging in oak barrels adds complexity to the wine by imparting flavors of vanilla, spice, and toast. Some Merlots are aged for just a few months, while others may spend several years in barrels before being bottled.
Bottling and Aging: Once the wine has completed its aging process, it is bottled and may continue to age in the bottle for several more years. As Merlot ages, its tannins soften, and the wine develops more complex flavors, including earthy and tertiary notes like tobacco, leather, and dried fruit.
Food Pairings with Merlot
What Foods Pair Best with Merlot?
Merlot is known for its versatility when it comes to food pairings. Its medium-bodied structure, soft tannins, and ripe fruit flavors make it an excellent companion to a wide variety of dishes. Here are some of the best foods to pair with Merlot:
Red Meats: Merlot pairs beautifully with red meats like beef, lamb, and venison. The wine’s tannins help to cut through the richness of the meat, while its fruitiness complements the savory flavors.
Poultry: Merlot can also work well with roast chicken, duck, and even turkey. The wine’s acidity balances the fat in these dishes, while its fruitiness enhances the flavors of the meat.
Pasta Dishes: Tomato-based pasta dishes, like spaghetti Bolognese or lasagna, are a great match for Merlot. The wine’s acidity complements the tomatoes, while its rich fruit flavors pair well with the savory meat sauce.
Cheese: When it comes to cheese pairings, Merlot works well with a variety of cheeses, including Brie, Cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan. The wine’s smooth texture and fruitiness make it a perfect complement to the creamy and nutty flavors of the cheese.
Vegetarian Dishes: For vegetarian options, try pairing Merlot with dishes like roasted vegetables, mushroom risotto, or eggplant Parmesan. The wine’s earthy and fruity notes complement the flavors of the vegetables, while its acidity balances the richness of the dish.
Serving and Storing Merlot
How to Serve Merlot
Merlot is best served at a temperature between 60-65°F (15-18°C). Serving it too warm can make the wine taste overly alcoholic, while serving it too cold can mute its flavors. If your Merlot has been stored at room temperature, it’s a good idea to chill it for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
Decanting Merlot
Decanting Merlot is not always necessary, but it can be beneficial for older vintages or heavily oaked wines. Decanting allows the wine to breathe, which helps to soften the tannins and bring out its flavors and aromas. If you’re serving a younger Merlot, decanting may not be necessary, but you can still swirl the wine in your glass to help aerate it.
Storing Merlot
If you’re planning to store Merlot for an extended period, it’s important to keep it in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature. Ideally, wine should be stored at around 55°F (13°C). If you’re storing an open bottle of Merlot, make sure to reseal it with a cork or a wine stopper and store it in the refrigerator. An open bottle of Merlot can last for up to 3-5 days if stored properly.
Conclusion: Why Merlot Is a Red Wine Favorite
In conclusion, Merlot is undoubtedly a red wine. Its smooth texture, rich fruit flavors, and approachable nature make it a favorite among wine drinkers around the world. Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, Merlot offers something for everyone. Its versatility in terms of food pairings, aging potential, and regional variety means that there is always something new to discover with this beloved red wine.
If you’re looking for a wine that’s easy to drink, pairs well with a wide range of dishes, and offers a great introduction to the world of red wines, Merlot is an excellent choice. With its soft tannins, ripe fruit flavors, and balanced acidity, it’s no wonder that Merlot has earned its place as one of the most popular red wines in the world.
