Merlot: A Quick Guide
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While Merlots are quite often softer and more lush than Cabernet Sauvignon, they are still often full-bodied, deep in color, and fairly high in alcohol with flavors of cherry, plum and chocolate. Merlot matures in the bottle earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon, so Merlots are generally held in higher esteem by wine drinkers than by wine collectors. Merlot is also commonly blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, to soften the Cabernet, and create a more complex wine.

When serving Merlot, it should be slightly below room temperature. Place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving, to bring it to the correct serving



temperature. Merlot pairs well with many foods, including red meat, pork, poultry, and pasta.

Over the years, where Merlot used to be utilized in blending with other wines, more and more, it is beginning to be appreciated on it's own.