For years, Merlot has never been the first choice with customers frequently skipping right past it and instead opting for a Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon. Some even say the movie Sideways gave it a bad name, with just one line convincing drinkers there was something wrong with Merlot. But here’s the twist: lately we’ve noticed more and more customers specifically asking, “Do you have a Merlot on the menu?” And we love that it might be making a comeback!
Merlot has so much to offer. It’s generous, smooth and approachable, often with soft tannins that make it very easy to drink. It usually has great flavours of ripe plums, juicy red berries, sometimes a bit of spice or chocolate, depending on the region. It’s a variety that feels plush without being too heavy making it a perfect “any day” red. The sort of wine you can enjoy with a meal or just a glass on its own after a long day.
Here in New Zealand, Merlot grows particularly well in Hawke’s Bay, Waiheke Island and Northland, where the warmer climate and longer ripening season bring out its plush fruit and supple texture. In fact, Merlot is one of the most widely planted red varieties in the country, but more often than not is used in Bordeaux -style blends. There are a few producers doing straight Merlots and showcasing just how good they can be on their own. If you’ve only ever thought of Merlot as a blending grape, you’re in for a treat when you try a well-made New Zealand example.
We’re finding that our customers are rediscovering Merlot for exactly these reasons. It’s versatile at the table, pairing beautifully with everything from slow-cooked lamb to mushroom risotto, yet soft enough to enjoy by the glass with no food at all. Perhaps the season also has something to do with it? We are enjoying some warmer days with Spring definitely here, but the wet weather also keeps you in the mood for a not-too-heavy red wine.
So yes, Merlot might have had a rough patch in the popularity stakes, but it seems to be back! If you haven’t poured yourself a glass in a while, maybe it’s time to give Merlot another chance. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
We love these ones:
Trinity Hill Merlot - A smooth, approachable Merlot from one of Hawke’s Bay’s most respected producers. Dark plum, blackberry and soft spice.
Mac by Jenny Dobson - a chilled version packed with flavours of sweet summer plums and juicy berry fruit. This one is cool!
Alpha Domus 'The Foxmoth' Merlot - super supple and generous flavours of boysenberry, chocolate and dark red plums.
Clearview Cape Kidnappers Merlot - from coastal Te Awanga vineyards, this Merlot is a fruit-forward red that showcases bright red cherry. Strictly not 100% Merlot as it does have a little added Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon in here too.