The plump and juicy Merlot grape variety is native to the French region of Bordeaux. It was procured from some of the best Bordeaux estates and transplanted to the United States hundreds of years ago. This temperamental grape is very particular about its growing environment, which is why it has acclimated to only a few select wine-growing regions in the U.S., aside from its natural habitat in France. Merlot also grows quite well in northeast Italy.
Merlot’s finicky nature stems from the fact that it ripens in mid-season, requiring slow maturation and harvesting before its acidity declines. In the United States, the warm, gradual summers of Napa Valley in California are ideal for this varietal. However, it’s important that temperatures do not become too high, as this causes the grape’s malic acid to respire. Other regions in California, such as Sonoma, Carneros, and Santa Barbara, are also known for producing high-quality Merlot. In addition, Washington’s Yakima and Columbia Valleys, along with New York’s Long Island, provide favorable climates for Merlot.
Merlot’s Global Reach
Outside of the United States, over two dozen countries plant Merlot. There are over 460,000 acres of Merlot vineyards worldwide, with 83% of these acres planted in Europe, and 24% of that in Bordeaux. Other countries with significant Merlot production include Italy, South Africa, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, and Spain. Additionally, Israel, Hungary, Switzerland, Georgia, Russia, Mexico, Bulgaria, Portugal, Romania, Argentina, and Slovenia also cultivate this versatile grape.
The ideal Merlot growing season features a moderate, dry climate. While Merlot tolerates cooler seasons well, rainy and damp regions hinder grape health. For instance, Oregon’s cooler, wetter climate can lead to poor fruit set in spring, which results in rotten, moldy grapes in the fall.
While Merlot is thought to have originated in France, it is actually descended from Mediterranean vines that were introduced to Bordeaux during the early Christian era, dating back to the first century. The grape didn’t emerge as a distinct variety until the nineteenth century, evolving from the biturica varietal along with Malbec. It wasn’t until the 1970s, however, that Merlot began to gain the widespread acclaim it deserved, coinciding with the boom in fine wine production.
Merlot is one of the three most-planted red grape varieties in Bordeaux, following Grenache and Carignan. Even in Médoc—a famous Cabernet Sauvignon growing region—Merlot makes up nearly 40% of plantings. Merlot is one of the most popular fine wine grapes globally, with notable recognition in Eastern Europe and Australia. Its popularity stems from its ability to thrive in cold climates, producing complex flavors, and as a complementary grape for blending with harsher varietals, which results in a more approachable young wine. Merlot has also been known to flourish in regions where Cabernet Sauvignon struggles, making it the preferred choice for vineyards in these areas.
One of the reasons Merlot is so popular is that it generally has higher alcohol content and lower tannins compared to Cabernet Sauvignon, even when both are grown under the same conditions.
Merlot’s suitability as a young-drinking wine also means it doesn’t fare as well with aging compared to other red wines, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy contemporary reds without the hassle of cellaring. It’s the perfect wine for those looking for high-quality wine without the worry of long-term aging.
The flavors of Merlot are rich, complex, and enjoyable. Fruit flavors such as cherry, plum, and blackcurrant are prominent, while the bouquet offers floral notes of violets and roses, with hints of mint, caramel, bay leaves, and cloves to elevate your sensory experience. Some Merlots even feature subtle chocolate undertones.
One particularly sought-after Merlot is the 1999 Château Pétrus, which received a perfect score of 100 from Wine Spectator. This rare Bordeaux wine is priced at around $1,200 retail and consistently commands high prices for its exceptional quality—it represents the purest expression of Merlot.
