merlot

Another “citizen of the world” among grape varieties, it is the most widespread grape variety in Bordeaux and has experienced an explosive boom in recent decades. Merlot is adaptable to most soils and is relatively easy to cultivate. It is a vigorous, naturally productive grape that requires rigorous pruning. It is also important to harvest the grapes at the optimal time of ripeness, as Merlot can quickly lose its varietal characteristics if harvested overripe. In addition, Merlot is a true “sugar collector”, which causes the alcohol content of the wines produced from it to skyrocket.

Nevertheless, some of the noblest and most valuable wines in the world, such as Château Pétrus, are made from this grape variety. Today, Merlot is grown in practically all wine-growing countries of the world and is also very successful in overseas wine regions. In South Africa, Merlot wines are at home in almost all wine-growing regions. New Zealand wines are also readily made from this grape variety, especially in the Hawke’s Bay and Wairapa regions. In relatively cool Canada, wines from the Merlot grape variety have a great future.