It has a fairly strong ruby red colour, slightly garnet if aged. A strong bouquet, sometimes with a winey feel, Merlot produces notes of dark-fleshed fruit such as plums, blackberries and blueberries, blackcurrants and sour cherries. The tasting quality of Merlot is reflected in its softness and a roundness which comes from its tannins which are not particularly aggressive. They are soft wines, pure, deep, sweet and pleasant.
When to drink
Merlot is a versatile wine: when young it has a lower alcohol content and can be drunk with any meal, together with first courses (risottos and pastas), with meat sauces; or with red and hite meats (pork, veal, rabbit and poultry), with dishes based on game and mushrooms (porcini), or semi matured cheese.