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Merlot Wine Information
Merlot is very simaler to Cabernet Sauvignon. It is a lighter
and mellower version of Cabernet Sauvignon. It is widely grown
in California and until recent times has been one of the most popular
California wines. For a variety of reasons, including poking
fun at Merlot in the popular movie "Sideways," Merlot has fallen
out of favor by many.
- The Merlot is a red wine grape that is abundantly grown in
France’s
Bordeaux, and in particular in the St. Emilion region. In California,
Merlot was once only used as a blending grape to soften Cabernet
Sauvignon. In California Merlot has become immensely popular
as its own varietal.
- Approximtely 50,000 acres are planted with Merlot vineyards
in California.
- Merlot pairs with many meat dishes, barbeque foods, and mild
to medium cheese dishes.
- Merlot has aromas and flavors of blackberry, plum, current,
chocolate and vanilla. Merlot tends to have more herbaceous characteristics
than Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Merlot is a medium-bodied wine but can be made in a big style,
much like a Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Merlot in general is not capable
of aging as long as Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Merlot is widely grown in the Napa Valley and the Sonoma areas
of Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley, and Sonoma Valley.
Visit these wine trails to find wineries making delicious Merlot
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