Grapes are like people: some really can't do without a buddy, while others do very well on their own. Merlot is one of those cases where you can go either way. But we pick the solo merlot - chicly put monocépage - out. And specifically those from countries outside Europe. - TEXT EVELIJN VAN HEUVEN | IMAGE EDITORS
Merlot solo
Merlot is originally French. We know it, of course, as one of the protagonists of the widely loved Bordeaux wines. But after some 2 centuries on the European continent, this grape also decided to broaden its horizons. Especially in the 20th century, merlot moved across the world in many directions: Chile, Argentina, California, Australia, South Africa, even as far away as New Zealand. Merlot moved into the 'New World'. And in that New World too, he does like to collaborate, especially with his old French mattie cabernet sauvignon. But even outside the European continent, he shows that he can manage just fine on his own. Wondering what you get then? This Buying Guide takes you through New World countries where wines of 85 per cent or more merlot are made. Why 85 per cent? Because in many countries that is the minimum percentage to list only that grape on the label. So the wine may be 100 per cent merlot, but it may also have up to 15 per cent of another grape, unknown or otherwise, blended in. We neglect those for convenience.
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Curious to find out more about Merlot? Read it in WINELIFE Magazine 81. Order this one here!
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