Merlot Grape Varietal Definition

This varietal was once relegated to blending status, but it has now taken on an identity of its own. When varietally bottled, Merlot has herbal and fruity flavors similar to Cabernet, but also has a smooth and supple character in the mouth without the bite of tannins. It complements the same types of food that Cabernet does, albeit less distinctly.

Top producers hail from Bordeaux (where the wine is mostly blended with Cabernet but sometimes bottled separately, depending on the region), Chile, Argentina, Napa, Sonoma and Washington state. Other successful regions in the U.S. include Virginia and Long Island, New York.