
We thought we would share some knowledge about the grape variety so you can be a Merlot expert by the end of the day. If drinking is more your thing than reading though — jump to the bottom of the page to see our recommendations for the day. Enjoy!
Merlot is the 2nd most planted grape variety in the world so although Bordeaux is the home of Merlot, you’ll find it planted all across the world. Being so widely planted you’ll be sure to find a variety of different Merlot styles but generally Merlot is:
- Fruit-forward
- Medium bodied
- Medium tannins
- Medium acidity
All this combined means Merlot is a brilliantly versatile grape that needs to be celebrated!
What does this ‘fruit-forward’ grape taste like? Well, it’s a soft, juicy and round wine with flavours of raspberries, plum and black cherries.
In cooler climates the aromas will be more red fruits and in warmer climates, darker fruits. Merlot likes a bit of oak which will give it vanilla, tobacco and cedar notes. You will often even get a fruitcake flavour with those wines of Bordeaux!

So Merlot can certainly hold its own but it also plays an important role in blends, especially together with Cabernet Sauvignon where Merlot’s fruitiness counters the Cabernet’s higher level of tannins and structure.
Merlot’s versatility means you can have a lot of fun pairing these wines with food but here’s some general rules :-
- Everyday, lightly-oaked Merlots pair well with lighter meats — for a total crowdpleaser try a pan-roasted duck with berry sauce
- For more heavily oaked styles of Merlot (New World style), pair with richer meats, such as roasted lamb or beef in a cranberry jus
- Don’t think we’ve forgetten about you veggies — caramelized roast veggies especially those with a touch of sweetness such as roast squash, red peppers and red onions.
If in doubt, Merlot can always be enjoyed with, well, more Merlot 🍷
Thinking about picking up a bottle for dinner? Here’s a few of Wineapp favourites to get the juices flowing!

This lovely Californian Merlot is sweet like ripe plums, mixed with the toast and spice of American oak.

A well balanced wine with a mellow fruity flavour with a touch of vanilla and chocolate notes.

A juicy, broad and ripe wine, packed with red and black berry flavours; ideal with more delicate game dishes or lamb.

An elegant, well-structured red with a very smooth and supple mouth-feel and flavours of oak and vanilla.

For a real showstopper, try this well-aged quality Pomerol near its prime, with a delightfully earthy and dark fruit heavy nose.
Hopefully we’ve managed to tempt you to celebrate International Merlot day with a glass of the appropriate grape but if not, we’re sure you can find something you like within our selection of over 500 fine wines in the app! Regardless, Happy International Merlot Day!
