Merlot, named after the French word for blackbird, “merle,” due to its dark-skinned grapes, ranks as the second most widely cultivated red grape globally. Renowned for its soft tannins and approachable nature, Merlot thrives in diverse regions, showcasing flavors of blueberry, black cherry, and vanilla with velvety textures. Here are nine exceptional Merlots from around the globe that embody the grape’s versatility and quality.
The 9 Best Merlots From Around the World to Drink Right Now
1. Best Overall Merlot: PlumpJack 2021 Merlot, Napa Valley, California
PlumpJack’s 2021 Merlot opens with enticing aromas of black cherry and red raspberry, complemented by hints of savory herbs and brown baking spices. With flavors that intertwine blackberry, mocha, and red plum, it offers a smooth, feathery tannic structure.
2. Best Sonoma Merlot: Verite 2019 La Muse Merlot, Sonoma, California
Crafted by Pierre Seillan, Verite’s 2019 La Muse blends Merlot with Cabernet Franc and Malbec, presenting a vibrant ruby-garnet hue. Aromas of Bing cherry and dried herbs lead to a palate of red plum and dark cherry, balanced by bright acidity and silky tannins.
3. Best Napa Merlot: Duckhorn Vineyards 2020 Three Palms Merlot, Napa Valley, California
Duckhorn’s Three Palms 2020 Merlot features aromas of pomegranate and rose hips, evolving into flavors of cranberry, Mission fig, and dark chocolate. Its smooth tannins envelop a complex, fruit-forward profile.
4. Best Washington Merlot: Leonetti Cellars 2022 Merlot, Walla Walla Valley, Washington
Leonetti Cellars’ 2022 Merlot boasts aromas of mocha and freshly baked blackberry pie, leading to flavors of ripe red raspberry, black currant, and dried rose hips. Its chewy tannins underscore its rich, fruit-driven character.
5. Best Australian Merlot: Hickinbotham 2016 The Revivalist Merlot, McLaren Vale, Australia
From McLaren Vale, Hickinbotham’s 2016 Revivalist showcases crushed violet petals and red plum aromas, with bright acidity and plush tannins. Flavors of red currant and pomegranate underscore its vibrant, nuanced profile.
6. Best French Merlot: Château Bélair Monange 2016, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
Located at Saint-Émilion’s highest point, Château Bélair Monange’s 2016 Merlot matures in new French oak barrels, revealing aromas of cassis and olive tapenade. Its palate delights with blackberry preserves, violet, and a hint of flint, wrapped in silky tannins.
7. Best Merlot from Lazio, Italy: Famiglia Cotarella 2018 Montiano, Lazio, Italy
Famiglia Cotarella’s 2018 Merlot from Montiano boasts aromas of black plum and ripe cherry, unfolding into a full-bodied palate of dried plum and brown baking spice. Balanced and expressive, it exemplifies Lazio’s winemaking prowess.
8. Best Tuscan Merlot: Tenuta Montebello 2018 Picconero, Tuscany, Italy
Tenuta Montebello’s 2018 Picconero offers a garnet hue and aromas of red raspberry, black cherry, and cherry vanilla. Full-bodied yet balanced, it features rounded tannins and flavors of anise, red fruits, and brown spices.
9. Best Merlot Under $75: Chappellet 2021 Merlot, Napa Valley, California
Chappellet’s 2021 Merlot opens with ripe cherry and black raspberry aromas, accented by graphite and mocha. Silky tannins support flavors of black plum and roasted coffee bean, delivering a rich, accessible drinking experience.
Each of these Merlots represents the pinnacle of its respective region, offering unique expressions that highlight the grape’s adaptability and appeal. Whether from California’s renowned valleys or the historic vineyards of Bordeaux and beyond, these selections promise an exceptional journey through the world of Merlot.
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