Merlot is generally a medium bodied red wine that is easier to drink than other red wines because of its naturally lower acidity.Merlot has three main styles - soft and fruity, fruity with more tannins and brawny with a highly tannic style. The most typical flavours and aromas of Merlot include currant, black cherry, blackberry, mulberry, plum, violet, vanilla, sweet wood, oak, truffle and earth.
Merlot is a versatile variety that is grown right across Australia though it prefers climates that are not excessively cold. Merlot from warmer inland regions like the McLaren Vale, Orange and Hilltops is often soft textured with ripe, red berry flavours. Cooler and coastal climates like the Yarra Valley and Margaret River produce Merlot that is more savoury with hints of vanilla and cocoa.
Merlot lends itself to a wide array of food matching options due to its diversity. Try it with grilled and roasted meats, poultry, pâtés, salads and even hamburgers.
