Merlot Wine Guide

The Approachable Red

Merlot offers everything wine beginners seek: soft tannins, ripe fruit, and approachable character. Yet top examples from Pomerol and Saint-Emilion rank among the world’s most expensive and age-worthy wines.

Tasting Merlot

Flavor Profile

• Fruit: Plum, black cherry, raspberry
• Secondary: Chocolate, herbs, bay leaf
• Oak-aged: Vanilla, mocha, tobacco

Texture

Merlot’s defining feature is its soft, velvety texture. Lower tannins than Cabernet Sauvignon make it immediately approachable.

World Regions

Bordeaux Right Bank

The greatest Merlots come from Pomerol and Saint-Emilion, where clay soils and Atlantic influence create wines of extraordinary depth. Petrus and Le Pin demonstrate Merlot’s potential.

California

Warmer climate produces riper, softer wines. Napa and Sonoma offer excellent value.

Chile

Exceptional value Merlot with ripe fruit and soft tannins. Often the best introduction to the variety.

Washington State

Underrated region producing structured, age-worthy Merlots.

Merlot vs. Cabernet Sauvignon

Food Pairings

Merlot’s softness pairs well with:

• Roasted pork and chicken
• Beef bourguignon
• Mushroom risotto
• Medium-aged cheeses

Explore Merlot with Sommo

Don’t let outdated perceptions keep you from great Merlot. Use Sommo to discover quality producers and experience this versatile grape.