Merlot

READ OUR FULL ENCYCLOPEDIA MERLOT ENTRY. Merlot is one of the most popular wines in the world. It is a type of red wine made from the blackberry-like Merlot grape and is known for its soft, velvety texture. Merlot is often used as a blending grape but can also be made into a varietal wine. 
 

Best Foods to Pair Merlot
 

Merlot is a versatile red wine that can be enjoyed with various foods. Here are some of the best dishes to pair with merlot:

• Beef: Merlot's robust flavours stand up well to hearty beef dishes. Try pairing it with a steak, burgers, or even short ribs.
• Poultry: Merlot's fruitiness make it a great match for poultry dishes like chicken, turkey, and duck.
• Vegetables: Merlot's acidity helps to offset the richness of vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and squash.
• Cheese: Merlot's flavours complement a variety of cheeses, from sharp cheddar to creamy Brie.

So whatever you're in the mood for, there's a good chance that merlot will be the perfect wine to enjoy with your meal.

How to Serve Merlot Properly

Merlot is a type of red wine that is known for being soft and easy to drink. When serving Merlot, it is important to use the right glassware and to let the wine breathe before drinking. Merlot can be served with a variety of foods, but it pairs especially well with beef and lamb dishes. If you are new to serving Merlot, here are a few tips to help you get started.

The first step in serving Merlot is to choose the right glassware. Merlot glasses should have a wide bowl that tapers at the top. This allows the wine to breathe and enhances the flavour.

When pouring Merlot, be sure to pour it into the glass at an angle. This prevents oxygen from coming into contact with the wine and keeps it from getting too oxidised.

Once your glasses are filled, let the wine sit for a few minutes before drinking. This allows the flavours to develop and makes for a more enjoyable experience.

When pairing food with Merlot, think about dishes that are rich in flavour. Beef and lamb dishes are always good choices, but Merlot can also be enjoyed with chicken, pasta, or even dessert. 

Merlot's Historical Importance

Merlot is a red wine grape that is used as both a blending grape and for varietal wines. The name Merlot is thought to be a diminutive of merle, the French name for the blackbird, probably because the grape's colour is similar to that of the bird's feathers. Merlot is one of the major grapes planted in Bordeaux and is also found in the Southwest of France, Italy, California, and Washington. 

Merlot was probably first planted in Bordeaux in the 18th century, although it was not widely planted until the 19th century. The grape gained in popularity due to its ease of growth and its ability to produce soft, round, and fruity wines that were more approachable than the cabernet sauvignons of the time. Merlot-based wines became especially popular in the 1980s and 1990s as part of the "international style" of wine made in a more fruit-forward and approachable style.

Today, Merlot is one of the most widely planted grapes in the world. It is particularly popular in Bordeaux, where it is often blended with cabernet sauvignon. 

Merlot pairs well with food, making it a great choice for dinner parties and other gatherings. If you are looking for a red wine to add to your collection, consider trying Merlot.