Is Merlot a Red Wine? How It Compares to Cabernet & Pinot Noir

Merlot is among some of the most well-known names, and yet one of the most asked questions concerning it is, Is Merlot a red wine? Well, yes! It sure is! It’s a classic red that is fruit-driven and perfect for just about any scenario. 

Among the bigger names like Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir, Merlot seems to hold its spot quite well. Merlot offers you the perfect middle ground. Delicate and rich, without being too heavy, while also maintaining complexity, without losing its approachability. It’s the go-to wine that has earned its spot at every dinner table possible. 

In this blog, we’ll explore whether Merlot is a red wine, break down its flavor profile, compare it to Cabernet and Pinot Noir, and share the best regions, pairings, and WHWC picks to try.

Is Merlot a Red Wine? The Simple Answer

Merlot is certainly red. It has the balance of ripe fruit flavors with that silky mouthfeel and a medium structure. It’s not quite as dense and heavy as Cabernet Sauvignon nor as dainty and lightweight as Pinot Noir, which is maybe why many think of it as extremely approachable.

There is a general stigma surrounding Merlot being far too soft, but that is not always the case. Merlot can have plenty of structure and age amazingly well. Being mysterious while staying approachable is why Merlot thrives year after year.

Merlot’s Flavor Profile & Structure

Merlot is described as inviting, smooth, and juicy by just about anyone. Cherry, plum, and raspberry dominate the flavor profile with a little assist from chocolate. It's so good that you'd want to have another sip, without even putting the glass down from the first. 

If you'd observe just a tad more, you will find some extra, layered notes. Based on how it was aged and where it was grown, it can offer distinct notes of tobacco, cedar, fresh herbs, or even vanilla. The details are what contribute to each bottle's unique personality. 

Structurally, Merlot is medium-bodied by not being too heavy or light. Tannins in Merlot are softer, making the wine feel much smoother and approachable. Most bottles are ready to drink. However, good things take time. Merlots take about 10-15 years of aging to develop a richer, more complex flavor profile. 

Is Merlot Sweet or Dry?

The quick answer would be: Merlot has been and will always be dry. Merlot bottles have such low sugar that you wouldn't even notice that. 

Then what makes people think it's a sweet wine? The fruit-forward profile and hints of chocolate give it the impression of being sweet. It's what tricks people into thinking it's sweet when actually it's dry. 

Now, there are a few blends where Merlot seems to be on the sweeter side, although they are very rare. The typical bottle you'd find on the shelf is pretty dry, smooth, and bursting with flavors. It's supposed to be smooth, fruity, and bursting with flavors, not sugary.

Merlot vs Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is certainly the more powerful of the two. Bold structure, firm tannins, and a flavor profile that can take you by storm. Looking for something intense and or age-worthy strength? Guess you've just got your match. 

Now, Merlot is quite the opposite. It's fruit-forward, relaxed, and much smoother, making it extremely approachable. This balanced nature is why people opt for Merlot over Cabernet.

In Bordeaux, both of these grapes share the stage. The left bank seems to be cab-heavy, while the right bank chooses Merlot. Combined, they strike the perfect balance between power and charm that makes this blend so iconic.

In terms of food, Cabernet pairs amazingly with fatty steaks and heartier meals. Merlot offers much more versatility and works with chicken, pork, lamb, or pasta. One is a specialist, the other is a crowd-pleaser.

Merlot vs Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is lighter of the two. With delicate flavors of cherry, mushroom, a little spice, and bright acidity, it becomes delicate and nuanced. Shines in times when you want something graceful rather than powerful.

Merlot is comparatively fuller. Notes of darker fruits and a velvety, smooth mouth-feel truly elevate it. It's richer without being heavy on the palate. This factor makes it enjoyable in many different settings. 

When making the choice, consider the mood of the meal. Pinot is the best choice for when you want elegance and lift. Merlot is the best option when you want depth and roundness that doesn't weigh you down like a Cabernet.

Best Merlot Region to Explore

Merlot is known to have a very shifting personality. It changes based on where it's grown. Some bring out the softer side, and some a richer, structured side.

Bordeaux (Right Bank – Pomerol, Saint-Émilion)

This is Merlot’s birthplace. Elegant and deep with silky textures and earthy complexities. Strongly age-worthy too.

California (Napa Valley, Sonoma)

Merlot here is ripe and modern, offering fruity and mocha notes. It’s very approachable and bound to please any consumer.

Washington State

The balance is everything! An Old World structure and New World flavors create something serious and smooth. 

Italy (Tuscany, Veneto)

In Italy, they combine Sangiovese or Cabernet with Merlot. This creates a blend that's savory and juicy, topped with a rustic charm.

Merlot Food Pairings That Work Best

Merlot has that magical right body structure. A red wine that’s one of the easier ones to pair with foods. It's bold to stand up with rich flavors, yet delicate to not overpower the lighter flavors.

Roast chicken, lamb, or pork tenderloins, Merlot is known to pair up with meats amazingly. The savory and rich flavors are cut through by the fruitiness in the wine. Merlot also goes surprisingly well with comfort foods like pizza, burgers, and a nice, hearty bowl of pasta in tomato sauce. 

Cheese lovers also have a lot of things to appreciate. Camembert or Creamy Brie brings out the softer side of the wine. Aged cheddar contrasts the fruitiness with a nice, nutty flavor. For the vegetarians, spiced lentil stews, grilled portobellos, and smoky eggplants are testimonials that Merlot does not require meat to shine.

Serving & Enjoying Merlot

Merlot can be extremely rewarding if you serve it correctly. A few adjustments and you're elevating your wine to the next level.

• 60-65°F is the ideal temperature. Too warm, and it would feel heavy; too cold can mess up the flavors.
• A young Merlot opens up beautifully if you keep it in a decanter for about 30-60 minutes. 
• Bordeaux-style glasses aerate and concentrate the flavors and aromas properly. 
• Most bottles are perfect for weeknight dinners. Higher-end Merlots, however, age gracefully in a cellar for about 10-15 years. 

WHWC Somm Picks: Merlots Worth Trying in 2025

Exploring great Merlots? Our somm team has curated some selections that showcase the range from fruity, plush wines to the more structured, elegant wines. 

Ancient Peaks Merlot Paso Robles 2021

Plum, cherry, and cocoa form this plush wine. Has smoother tannins due to oak aging. Pairs up great with pork tenderloins and mushroom dishes. 

Hendry Merlot Napa Valley Block 13 2020

Cola, raisin, and vanilla notes with a medium-body structure. Has a nice, broad mouthfeel with a firm finish. Feel free to pair them with burgers or aged cheddar.  

Leonetti Merlot Walla Walla Valley 2022

Notes of black cherry, cedar, and herby notes are enclosed neatly in polished tannins. Pairs up great with mushroom pasta and lamb dishes.

Quattro Theory Merlot Napa Valley 2022

It's got lively acidity, firm tannins, and layered fruity notes. It's ripe, refined, and versatile. Roast chicken, grilled veggies, and pork pair up really great.

FAQs About Merlot

Is Merlot a Red Wine or White Wine?

Merlot’s certainly a red wine. It’s fruit-driven and has a very smooth texture. 

Is Merlot Sweet or Dry? 

Merlot is mostly dry. Its fruit-forward, plush flavor profile makes it seem like it is sweet.

How does Merlot compare to Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet is bold, structured, and tannic. Merlot is softer and smoother on the palate. 

What foods go best with Merlot?

Merlot’s very versatile and adaptable. Be it roast chicken, lamb, burgers, or the veggie options, everything pairs amazingly well. 

Can Merlot be aged long-term?

Yes! While most of the bottles are ready to drink, high-quality Merlots can age wonderfully for 10-15 years. 

Why Merlot Belongs in Every Cellar

Merlot's got something for everyone. Complex and layered, without losing approachability. It has the perfect amount of body with smooth tannins and plush flavors. Brings the best of both worlds by combining Cabernet's structure and Pinot's delicacies. It's elegant, it's rich without weighing heavily on the palate. 

Ready to experience it yourself? Explore WHWC’s Merlot collection and discover why this red wine continues to be a timeless favorite. 

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