Merlot is a red grape variety with strong historical ties to Bordeaux and southwestern France. It’s associated with both smooth, easy-drinking everyday wines and world-class icons from Saint-Émilion and Pomerol.

Merlot’s most common role in the wine world is likely in the famous Bordeaux blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot). Its classic flavor profile often includes deep plum and cherry notes, but beyond these distinct flavors, Merlot is also valued in blends for its velvety and rounded texture.

Smooth, rounded, and “easy to drink” are common descriptors for Merlot wines. This is largely because Merlot grapes tend to be relatively large, with a proportionally smaller amount of skins and seeds. The resulting juice is therefore a bit softer, which is one reason Merlot is often used to mellow wines made from more tannic varieties. However, in regions like Pomerol, Saint-Émilion, and Bolgheri, these grapes can develop great power, depth, and structure.