Grape Varieties

Merlot

Merlot is celebrated for its silky texture and approachable character. Offering aromas of plum, red cherry, and gentle herbal tones, it delivers a balanced, medium-to-full body with polished tannins. Oak aging adds mocha and cedar nuances, while bottle age brings leather and truffle complexity. Equally suited to fine dining and everyday enjoyment, Merlot bridges the richness of Cabernet Sauvignon with the finesse of Pinot Noir.

Origin

Bordeaux (France)

Notable Regions

Pomerol, Saint-Émilion (France), Napa Valley, Sonoma (USA), Bolgheri, Maremma (Italy), Colchagua Valley, Maipo Valley (Chile), Mendoza (Argentina), Coonawarra, Margaret River (Australia), Hawke’s Bay (New Zealand)

Popular Styles

Pomerol, Saint-Émilion, Napa Valley Merlot, Tuscan Merlot

Ageing Potential

15+ Years

Serving Temperature

Best enjoyed at 16-18°C

Alcohol

13.0-15.0%

Glass

Bordeaux

Taste Profile

Light

Body

Bold

Smooth

Tannins

Tannic

Soft

Acidity

Acidic

Dry

Sweetness

Sweet

Main Flavors

Primary (Grape-derived)

Red PlumBlack CherryRaspberryViolet

Secondary (Winemaking-derived)

CedarVanillaBaking SpicesCocoa

Tertiary (Ageing-derived)

LeatherTruffleTobaccoDried Fig

Color

Young

Mature

Aged

Old

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General Pairing Principles

Protein-Rich Foods Savory Dishes Umami-Driven Dishes

Asian Pairing Suggestions

Vietnamese Shaking Beef Chinese Braised Pork Belly Korean BBQ (Bulgogi or Galbi) Japanese Teriyaki Thai Panang Curry

Pairs well with moderately spiced dishes, where flavors stay balanced with the wine’s ripe fruit and smooth tannins. Avoid very spicy food, as the wine’s structure may intensify the heat.