Merlot – A Versatile Wine in Your New Jersey Wine Cellar

There are different types of wine stored in a wine cellar by wine enthusiasts. Merlot is one of the most popular red wines loved by many wine collectors. Let’s learn more about Merlot.

Characteristics of the Merlot Grape 

The Merlot grape is the most famous variety in the Bordeaux region in France because of its fruity and soft characteristics. It matures earlier than the Cabernet Sauvignon yet displays desirable flavors and aromas. Its early maturation enables it to adapt in cooler climates.

Its versatility, or ability to be blended with other grapes, allows winemakers to soften other wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc with it which makes them more enjoyable to drink. Compared to the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes the Merlot grapes have fewer tannins, thinner skin, and are lighter in color. The thin skin makes Merlot grapes highly susceptible to rot.

The Merlot Wine 

Merlot wine, which is classified as a Cabernet, is ever-present in the wine cellars of wine lovers because of its many desirable characteristics which make it enjoyable to drink and easily pair with many dishes. In addition to being smooth and fruity, Merlot is lower in tannins, making it easier to drink than other red wines.

Flavors and aromas of Merlot wine include berries, plum, chocolate, black cherry, eucalyptus, mint, cedar, vanilla, pine, rose, herbs, and other earthy flavors. Merlot wines aged in oak barrels have more structure and a smoky flavor.

Food Pairing

When pairing wine with food, it is essential that one does not overwhelm the other. It is important to know the rules of choosing a wine in your home wine cellar to be served with your dish.

Since Merlot is fruity and has medium tannin content and acidity, it can be paired with meats (especially meats with mushrooms) and tomato-based Italian dishes. One way to highlight the oaky components of Merlot is to pair it with any charred, planked, or grilled food.

Other dishes to be paired with this plumy red wine are seafood such as shrimp, salmon, and scallops. Spicy dishes and foods that don’t contain protein or fat such as pasta and steamed vegetables should not be served with Merlot.

It is ideal to include Merlot in your wine storage room. It is not only easy to pair with a wide variety of dishes and makes the wine drinking experience more memorable, but it can also be a great gift for someone. So make sure that you can grab some Merlot wines from your residential wine cellar to serve your guests at any occasion.