Merlot
Merlot
is currently the world's most popular red wine. This is due,
primarily to its fresh fruity appeal. The wine expresses the red
fruit flavors of cherry, plum and currants.
This grape is capable of producing wines which are full-bodied with
medium to heavy tannins. The most popular varieties however, are the
softer more fruit forward style. This grape variety is easier to grow
and bring to ripeness than the
cabernet sauvignon
, making this grape a better option when climate conditions are borderline.
France - where it is the 4th most widely planted grape. In the Bordeaux regions of Pomerol and St. Emilion
the wines are refined and elegant with heavy complexity, intense fruit
and ripe tannins. To truly appreciate the full flavors of this wine
special
red wine glasses
are recommended. Wines from this region are capable of aging for many years and can sell for prices well over $300.00 a bottle.
California
- common areas are the Napa Valley and Alexander Valley. The wines
produced from this grape in these areas are typically light, fresh and
fruity in style. They generally have heavy cherry fruit flavors. In
the United States, it is a popular grape grown in Washington State and
Long Island New York as well.
Italy, Argentina and Chile
- are also producing this wine varietal. It is the 5th most important
grape planted in Italy. In several regions of Italy, it must be
incorporated into all wines bearing the label (DOC), Denominazione di Origine Controllata.
*Light-Bodied - can be served as an Apertifs (a
drink served as an appetizer), due to it's fruity style with a harder
cheese such as Parmesan Reggiano.
*Medium-Bodied - pairs well with meals of chicken and duck.
*Full-Bodied - complements a meal of steak, lamb or grilled barbeque meats.
