Merlot

Merlot is not a grape variety which you’ll often see on its own in Australia.

When you do, however it will be full of attractive primary fruit flavours and velvety softness to make you wonder why.  Merlot makes a perfect partner for Cabernet Sauvignon; Merlot adds the suppleness to Cabernet’s stern, serious structure.

Fine examples of Merlot blended wines are available from the warmer inland regions, such as Riverina, Riverland and Murray Darling.  Unblended Merlot is also being increasingly seen from these areas, where like the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale it produces a soft dry red often described as plush plum like.

In cooler climates such as the Yarra Valley or Margaret River, unblended Merlot tends to take on more savoury flavours with firmer tannins.