Wine lovers around the world often debate the merits of different grape varieties. Of the many grape varieties that have won over wine lovers, Merlot and Pinot Noir are two of the most beloved red wines. The two wines share some similarities, but they are different enough to make them unique in terms of taste, aroma, and ideal food pairings.
Understanding the differences between Merlot and Pinot Noir can enhance your wine knowledge and improve your ability to choose the right wine for any occasion. Both wines offer a unique experience for the taste buds, each with its own distinct flavors, aromas, and textures. This article takes a deep dive into the key differences between these two wines, examining their origins, flavor profiles, production methods, and how they pair with food.
After reading this article, you will have a deeper understanding of these two iconic wines and know exactly when it’s time to reach for a bottle of Merlot or Pinot Noir.
Origins and History of Merlot and Pinot Noir
Merlot: Origins and Early History
Merlot is one of the most widely planted red grape varieties in the world. It originated in the Bordeaux region of France, where it was first planted in the 16th century. Merlot is often associated with the Left Bank of Bordeaux, but it has also found success in other regions such as California, Chile, and Australia.
The name “Merlot” is thought to be derived from the French word “merle,” meaning “blackbird,” which is thought to refer to the dark color of the grape and the fact that blackbirds are often attracted to the fruit. Merlot was traditionally used in Bordeaux blends, often paired with Cabernet Sauvignon. It gained popularity worldwide in its own right in the late 20th century as producers began to focus on producing single-variety Merlot wines.
Pinot Noir: Origins and Early History
Pinot Noir is one of the oldest and most revered grape varieties in the world. It is believed to have originated in the Burgundy region of France, with roots dating back to the Roman Empire. The name “Pinot” comes from the French word for “pine,” referring to the shape of the grape bunches, which resemble pine cones. The variety is known for being difficult to grow, requiring a cool climate and meticulous attention to detail.
Pinot Noir was grown in Burgundy for centuries but has since spread to various other regions, including California, Oregon, New Zealand, and Germany, where it is known as Spätburgunder. While it is a more difficult grape to grow, its delicate flavor and finesse have made it one of the most revered red wine varieties worldwide.
Flavour Profile: What’s the Difference Between Merlot and Pinot Noir?
Merlot Flavour Profile
Merlot is often characterised by its smooth, velvety texture and fruity, full-bodied flavour. It tends to have a medium to full body and soft tannins, making it approachable even for red wine novices. Merlot’s flavour profile will vary depending on the climate in which it is grown, but it generally features ripe fruit flavours such as:
Plum
Black Cherry
Raspberry
Blackberry
Merlot wines often have earthy, herbal and spicy notes, especially in more complex versions. Depending on the winemaking process, Merlot can also show notes of chocolate, vanilla and coffee, especially if it is aged in oak barrels.
This wine is known for being softer and lower in tannins than some other red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer, fruitier wine without the astringency that comes with high tannin levels.
Pinot Noir Flavour Profile
Pinot Noir, on the other hand, is known for its elegance, sophistication and complexity. It is lighter in body and has higher acidity than Merlot, which gives it a bright, fresh character. Pinot Noir also has a more subtle and delicate flavor profile than Merlot, with key flavors including:
Raspberry
Strawberry
Cherry
Cranberry
Pinot Noir is often described as having a silky mouthfeel with a balance of earthy, floral, and herbaceous elements. Depending on the region and winemaking method, it may also have notes of mushroom, wet earth, spice, or even a hint of rose petal. This wine can present a lighter mouthfeel and higher acidity, making it a great choice to pair with a variety of foods.
Unlike the more fruit-focused Merlot, Pinot Noir exhibits a wider range of aromatic complexity, from savory and spicy to floral and earthy.
Differences in Body and Tannins
Body and Tannins in Merlot
Merlot is generally considered a medium to full-bodied wine. This means that it is richer and heavier on the palate than lighter red wines such as Pinot Noir. The tannins in Merlot are relatively soft and well-integrated, contributing to the wine’s smooth texture. As a result, Merlot tends to feel rounder and less astringent than wines with higher tannins, such as Cabernet Sauvignon.
Merlot’s lower tannin content makes it tolerable even for those who are sensitive to tannic wines. This characteristic, combined with its fruity nature, makes Merlot a very versatile wine that can be easily enjoyed without aging.
Body and Tannins in Pinot Noir
In contrast, Pinot Noir is a light to medium-bodied wine with a higher acidity. Due to the thinner skins of the grapes and lower tannin content, it has a noticeably softer mouthfeel than Merlot. While Pinot Noir is still a red wine, it has a lighter, more delicate flavor. Pinot Noir’s tannins are generally less noticeable, making it a good choice for those who prefer a less astringent wine.
Pinot Noir’s higher acidity also gives it a crisper, more refreshing taste compared to the softer, rounder Merlot. This makes Pinot Noir ideal for pairing with a variety of foods, as it can neutralize fatty dishes without overwhelming the taste buds.
Ideal Food Pairings for Merlot and Pinot Noir
Food Pairings for Merlot
Merlot is smooth, rich, and fruity, making it a perfect pairing for a variety of foods. The versatility of this wine allows it to pair well with both hearty and lighter dishes. Some ideal food pairings for Merlot include:
Red Meat: Grilled steak, roasted lamb, and beef tenderloin are all great choices, as this wine complements the richness and umami flavors of the meat.
Cheese: Soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and goat cheese pair perfectly with Merlot. The smooth texture and mild flavors of these cheeses balance out the fruitiness of the wine.
Pasta: Pasta dishes with tomato sauce, especially those with meat sauce, are enhanced by the fruity and acidic flavors of Merlot.
Roasted Vegetables: Vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and mushrooms pair well with Merlot wines, as their earthy flavors complement the subtle herbal aromas of the wine.
Food Pairings for Pinot Noir
The delicate, subtle flavor and higher acidity of Pinot Noir make it an ideal wine to pair with a variety of foods. The wine pairs particularly well with lighter dishes, as its acidity helps balance out rich or fatty flavors. Some good food pairings for Pinot Noir include:
Poultry: Roasted chicken, duck, and turkey are excellent choices, as the acidity and fruitiness of Pinot Noir wine pairs perfectly with tender, flavorful meats.
Pasta: Pinot Noir pairs well with creamy pastas, especially those served with mushroom sauces. The earthy flavors in the wine enhance the umami flavor of the mushrooms.
Salmon and Other Fatty Fish: The higher acidity of this wine can counteract the oiliness of fatty fish, such as grilled salmon or tuna.
Cheese: Pinot Noir pairs well with semi-soft cheeses, such as Gruyère, Fontina, and Munster, as well as soft cheeses, such as Brie.
Vegetarian: Dishes like roasted vegetables, mushroom risotto or grilled eggplant complement the light earthy flavors of Pinot Noir.
Conclusion: Merlot vs. Pinot Noir
Both Merlot and Pinot Noir are excellent red wines, each with unique attributes. Merlot’s rich, smooth, and fruity flavors make it a crowd favorite, perfect for those who prefer a richer, more direct wine experience. Pinot Noir, on the other hand, has elegance, complexity, and sophistication, perfect for those who appreciate nuanced, subtle flavors.
Understanding the key differences between these two wines will help you make an informed choice when selecting a bottle for a particular occasion. Whether you’re looking for a smooth, approachable wine like Merlot or the refined, complex wine of Pinot Noir, both wines have something to offer wine lovers around the world.
Ultimately, choosing between Merlot and Pinot Noir comes down to personal preference and the food pairings you have in mind. Armed with this knowledge, you can fully enjoy these wines, savor every sip, and pair them perfectly with your favorite dishes.
Related topics
