Alcohol: Merlot
The Merlot grape compares closely to the Cabernet Sauvignon, although it contains less tannins. Lower tannins make a wine that matures faster, and feels softer in texture. For this reason, many wines blend Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon for a softer wine, and the many famous red Bordeaux wines are a prime example of these blends.
In fact, the Bordeaux region in France primarily uses both the Merlot and Cabernet blended with a smaller amount of other grape varietals for the red wines. The ideal climate in Bordeaux makes it one of the largest producers of wine. Compared to the Cabernet, Merlot grapes can mature in cooler climates, but are susceptible to fungus and mold diseases, making it a little harder to grow.
The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is the most widely used red wine grape in the world, and though it dominates in the Bordeaux region, it is also grown in all other major regions. These grapes produce wines that are high in Tannin, which gives them a long aging potential–from 5-10 years to reach peak flavor. Cabernets usually age for up to 18 months in oak barrels before bottling.
The Taste Characteristics of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot wines are softer, fruitier, and smooth in texture, with flavors of ripe berries. Since Merlots can grow in a slightly cooler climate, they tend to taste like the Cabernet, but with stronger flavors of olive and green pepper. The Cabernet is associated with flavors of dark cherry, black currant, cedar, and tobacco! Both wines are similar in many ways, and are often blended together.