Merlot

Popular Merlot Wines by Region

Merlot is used to craft a variety of wines in different regions. In Bordeaux, France, Merlot is often blended with other grapes, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, to create red Bordeaux blends. In other regions of France, such as the Languedoc-Roussillon, Merlot is also bottled as a single-varietal wine. In the United States, particularly in California, Merlot is often made as a varietal wine with a focus on its fruit-forward flavours and approachable style. Merlot is also widely grown in Italy, where it is used in various blends, as well as in Chile, Australia, and other wine regions. Learn more about this versatile grape and buy your perfect Merlot from our curated online selection.

Varietal Origin

Merlot is a red grape variety that is believed to have originated in the Bordeaux region of France, where it is one of the most widely planted grape varieties. In fact, its name is thought to be derived from "merle," the French word for blackbird, possibly alluding to the grape's dark colour or the birds' fondness for its sweet fruit. 

In Bordeaux, Merlot has a long and storied history, playing a crucial role in some of the world's most renowned and expensive wines. It is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, adding softness and fruitiness to the final blend. Now grown in many wine regions around the world, including Italy, the United States, Chile, Australia, and others, Merlot continues to captivate wine lovers with its approachable style and diverse expressions.

Typical Taste Profile

Merlot wines are known for their soft and rounded texture, with flavours of black cherry, plum, and blackberry. They can also exhibit notes of chocolate, herbs, and spices, depending on the winemaking style and terroir. Merlot is generally considered to be a medium-bodied wine with moderate tannins and acidity, and it can range from fruity and approachable to complex and age-worthy.