Merlot has been described as soft, sensual, and feminine. It is one of the three red noble grapes … the others being Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir.
This grape produces quality single varietal wines and is used frequently as a blending partner. It commands high respect in the professional wine world.
No wonder it is the second most planted red grape variety worldwide … even in Ontario!
Cool vs Warm Climate
Although Merlot grows well in a variety of climates, there is a difference between cool and warm region Merlot wines. In cool regions like Ontario and Bordeaux, Merlot wines tend to be lean, more structured, savoury (with herbal and earthy tones) and with firmer tannins. The fruit flavours are plum, blueberry, and black currant. Merlot is also known to have a touch of spice.
Origins
Merlot came into being along with its sibling Cabernet Sauvignon sometime between 1600-1700 in Bordeaux, France. These two grape varieties share the same parent, Cabernet Franc.
Dark-blue in colour, the Merlot berries were a favourite snack of vineyard birds … in fact, the name Merlot is derived from the French word merle for blackbird.
Right vs Left Bank
While Bordeaux wines are blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot (among others), the Gironde River cleaves the region in two. The right bank vineyards are dominated by Merlot (e.g., St. Émilion, Pomerol and Fronsac), whereas the left bank is heavy with Cabernet Sauvignon plantings.
Food Pairings
Merlot pairs well with a variety of foods from caramelized roast vegetables to steak. Fruity, easy-drinking Merlot goes great with pizza, pasta and white meats. Savoury styles go well with pâtés, charcuterie, roasted vegetables, mushrooms, roasted meats and duck. Full-bodied ripe styles, often with higher alcohol, can handle beef and lamb, hearty bean dishes, and game meats like venison and bison.
In warmer climates (like Argentina, Australia or California), Merlot is more fruit-forward and lush and the tannins are softer. Look for dark cherry, raspberry fruit, overtones of mocha, nutmeg and clove spice. However, these warm region Merlots also tend to be higher in alcohol and can approach 14.5%.
Another factor to consider is oak ageing. When Merlot wine has been aged in oak barrels that adds more structure and complexity. Light oak ageing can add notes of vanilla, caramel, coconut and cloves. Heavy oak ageing adds smoke, coffee, leather, cedar and cigar box notes.
Recipe
When harvesting lovely organic produce from our vegetable garden, we discovered that our organic Merlot pairs well with a combo of roasted veggies. So here’s what we do:
- 1 medium eggplant, trim ends, cut into 1″ cubes (salt & drain for 30 min. in a colander, rinse and pat dry)
- 2 zucchini, trim ends and slice into 1/2″ thick rounds
- 2 yellow squash, trim ends and slice into 1/2″ thick rounds
- 1 sweet potato. peel and slice into 1/2″ thick rounds
- 2 medium yellow onions, peel and slice into 8 wedges
- 1 fennel bulb (optional, trim and slice into thick sections)
- 2 bell peppers, 1 red, 1 green, seeded and cut into 1/2″ strips
- 6 garlic cloves, peel and cut each clove in half
- 1/3-1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Toss veggies with salt, pepper and olive oil. Divide evenly onto baking sheets in a single layer. Roast for about one hour until vegetables are caramelized and softened. Serves 6. Enjoy!
Merlot on Sale
Now is the time to buy our organic Merlot … throughout the month of August, our sale price is $2 off per bottle and we will ship it for FREE to your doorstep! (Free shipping within the province of Ontario on any quantity/any wine.)
2020 Farmers’ Markets
