Merlot Grapes

winep · Sep 12, 2012

I want to buy Merlot grapes , for winemaking
are they better alone or mixed ?

DoctorCAD · Sep 13, 2012

Some wineries add around 15% Cab to them, but I think they do that after fermenting both kinds of grapes and blending the wines, not the grapes.

Bartman · Sep 13, 2012

California merlot tends to be better for blending as it is very intensely fruity. 'Experts' claim Washington Merlot grapes are better because they are not quite so fruity and a little lower alcohol level. I like Merlot on its own, but I will be blending fresh Merlot grapes with Cab. Sauv and Cab. Franc grapes in about a month.

PaulS · Sep 13, 2012

I have used some merlot to blend in with other wines. I have never actually made a wine using only merlot grapes because of availability and price. I would LOVE to give it a try. Perhaps I will make a 5 gallon batch.

pete1325 · Sep 14, 2012

We made Merlot wine last year.....it came out very fruity with less body then I thought it would have. The color was also very light in the beginning (6 months) but is darkening up a bit as it ages. The year before we made Merlot (60%) and Syrah (40%) and it was fantastic! This year we plan on a Cab/Syrah blend....it should have more body, less fruity and darker. I can't wait!

robie · Sep 14, 2012

Many varietal wines are sold under then name of that varietal, but have a small percentage of other varietals blended in for mouth-feel, taste, and aroma. This is very typical. Merlot by itself is a great wine. Of course it all depends on what one likes.