theCompass
 Home   Map   Blog Roll   WineCompass   Wine 101   My Compass 

Merlot

Merlot Wine Details
Price:

Description: This Merlot shows the qualities that have made this grape a variety favorite. A range of fresh flavors such as plums, cherries and blackberries mixed with black pepper tones. The tannin levels are fairly low and the fruit flavor is very forward. Enjoy this wine with pasta, meats and sharp cheeses.

Varietal Definition
Merlot:
Merlot is known as a Noble Bordeaux varietal. Although it came to France in the first century, it was not named until the 1880s. Merlot was originally used only for blending, as it is soft and compliant, very useful in softening other Bordeaux wines like Cabernets. Recently in California and Chile it became popular as a 100% varietal wine. Merlot tends to be easier to grow in a variety of soil conditions and is harvested earlier in the year than Cabernet. Although most Merlots are made to be drunk earlier, there are many with complexities of a Cabernet. Flavors of plum, black cherry, violet, chocolate and orange pair well with rich, red pasta dishes, hearty chicken dishes, and any beef combination that you fancy. The perfect match of course is chocolate. Not only does the chocolate compliment the wine and vice-versa, but the essence of both flavors linger eternally.


Reviews




Back to River Valley Winery information