What is Merlot Wine? The Origins and Spread

Merlot is an international black grape variety named after the blackbird, locally known as 'merle', which often drinks the nectar of the merlot wine grapes. Although its origins are unknown and shrouded in mystery, this vine has been cultivated for several centuries in Gironde, in the southwest of France, specifically in the famous Bordeaux area. The earliest records date back to 1700, but its first official appearance was in the mid-1800s in a French document detailing its noble qualities of smoothness and roundness.

It was precisely because of these unique characteristics that Merlot wine was blended with the robust and long-lived Cabernet Sauvignon and the fruity, vegetal Cabernet Franc, giving rise to the "Bordeaux blend", resulting in the most noble and sought-after bottles in the world.

In the same period, the first appearance in Italy in the Veneto region is documented, and it is precisely the School of Viticulture and Enology of Conegliano that provides a detailed description of its characteristics for the first time. Merlot's easy adaptability and great resistance, coupled with its unique taste, led to its rapid spread in central and northern Italy, first in Friuli and then in Piedmont, Trentino-South Tyrol, Tuscany, and Lombardy. It soon reached Sicily and was also exported across the border to Eastern Europe. As a result of its success, in a few decades it arrived overseas, in the United States, South America, and in the new world, Australia, and New Zealand.

The Most Famous Production Areas of Merlot

The birthplace of merlot red wine is the French territory of Bordeaux, and its most famous and celebrated versions come from its smallest denomination, Pomerol, where pure French merlot gives rise to masterpieces of great elegance and finesse, of extraordinary class and personality. Pomerol is a small, highly contested area with many crus and measures around 12 square kilometres divided between 150 producers. In the central location, the soil is dominated by clay and sand, and proceeding towards the south, the terrain is stony, full of pebbles and light-coloured stones, known as 'graves'. Here, on Petrus Hill, the most famous and expensive red wine in the world is born: Chateau Petrus.

In Italy, this grape is very successful in the northern regions and in Tuscany and Sicily. In Friuli, more precisely in the Colli Orientali area, it is often vinified with outstanding results. The mountain climate of the area influences it and offers fresher and more delicate expressions, with fruity and spiced scents, frequently refined only in steel. Also worth mentioning is the best merlot wine from Veneto, which, without adding other grapes, can offer more intense and complex interpretations with pleasant notes of berries and mineral tones.

A region that should undoubtedly be mentioned is Tuscany, where in the Bolgheri area it has carved out a very successful place for itself and has given rise to top merlot wines that are soft and full-bodied, structured and enveloping, as in the case of the prestigious Masseto of the Ornellaia Masseto estate, which is one of the most precious and significant expressions of Italian winemaking. Finally, in Sicily, merlot wine takes on a Mediterranean character, shedding its soft envelopment and acquiring savouriness, warmth and fullness of flavour. The merlot colour is often intense there, signalling its rich body.

Interesting wines are also being produced in the rest of the world, such as in America and Australia, where attempts are being made to mimic the French model and achieve the same quality levels, although there is undoubtedly a long way to go.

Exploring the Distinct Flavours of Merlot

Merlot vs Malbec

Merlot vs Malbec: two distinct red wines, but unique tasting experiences due to their individual characteristics and origins. Merlot, known for its smooth, velvety texture and taste of plum, red berries, and light herbal or earthy notes, is celebrated for its adaptability. This adaptability, along with its softness, makes it widely accessible and popular for both casual drinkers and wine connoisseurs alike. Cultivated primarily in France and Italy, it produces elegant wines with moderate acidity and tannins . 

In contrast, Malbec, originally from France but now iconic in Argentina, offers a deeper, more robust flavour profile. It is richer in colour and body compared to Merlot, with dark fruit flavours such as blackberry, plum, and hints of spice or tobacco. The more tannic and full-bodied nature of Malbec wines provides a bolder experience, especially when paired with hearty meals. In summary, Merlot is softer and more approachable, while Malbec is more intense and structured.

Merlot vs Shiraz

The differences are even more pronounced when comparing Merlot vs Shiraz  (also known as Syrah). Merlot, celebrated for its roundness and fruity elegance, offers a smooth drinking experience with flavours like cherry, plum, and soft spices. It pairs well with a wide range of dishes, making it versatile. 

In contrast, Shiraz is known for its boldness, offering spicy, peppery notes alongside dark fruit flavours like blackberries and plums. Often associated with Australia and the Rhône Valley in France, Shiraz tends to have a fuller body, higher tannins, and a more intense finish than Merlot. Shiraz wines can also exhibit smoky or earthy undertones, giving them a more complex profile. While Merlot is known for its subtle elegance, Shiraz stands out for its power and spice, appealing to those who prefer a more vibrant, expressive wine.

Exceptional Merlot Producers

Here are some of the best Merlot wine producers on Callmewine: 

• Tenuta San Leonardo: This historic estate specialises in Merlot blends and is known for crafting elegant, complex wines from organically grown grapes. With roots dating back to 1724, their philosophy is to preserve the ecosystem and let nature express itself fully in their wines.​ 
• Poggio Mandorlo: Located in the Maremma region, this winery merges the power of Bordeaux grape varieties like Merlot with Tuscany’s unique terroir. Their wines are noted for their structure, elegance, and excellent ageing potential.​
• Château Lapelletrie: This Bordeaux estate is celebrated for producing classic French Merlot blends that exemplify the region’s focus on balance and refinement. Their wines are full-bodied, complex, and rooted in traditional Bordeaux winemaking practices​.
• Famiglia Cotarella: This estate stands out in central Italy and is known for its innovation and commitment to quality. They focus on indigenous and international grape varieties, with Merlot being a key component of their prestigious blends.
• Tenuta Lenzini: Situated in the hills of Lucca, this biodynamic winery produces Merlot-driven wines that emphasise purity, freshness, and a deep connection to the land. Their natural approach to winemaking has earned them recognition for creating distinct and expressive wines. 

These producers are known for  exceptional top Merlot wines, each reflecting the unique characteristics of their respective regions.

On Callmewine, you'll discover the finest Merlot wines for any occasion. While the wine cost can vary, you'll always find great deals that match your budget and taste preferences, all with the convenience of delivery right to your door. Explore our exceptional wines, ideal for gifting or savouring at lively gatherings. With these fantastic bottles of Merlot, your aperitifs and dinner invitations will reach new heights!