Merlot Flashcards
(20 cards)
What climate does Merlot prefer?
Moderate or warm
Due to its thick skin, it requires a higher temperature to ripen
Which is the classic region for Merlot?
Bordeaux, France
What is the climate of Bordeaux?
Moderate
Describe the profile of Merlot
Sweetness
Acidity
Tannin
Body
Flavours from least ripe to most ripe
Sweetness: Dry
Acidity: Medium
Tannin: Medium
Body: Light to medium
Flavours: Green bell pepper, plum, blackberries, cherry
Why is Merlot usually blended with Cabernet Sauvignon?
Merlot soften the harder/stronger tannins of Cab Sauvignon and adds red fruit flavour and makes the wine more approachable
Does Merlot typically use oak?
Depending on style
Lighter bodied does not benefit from oak and medium to full bodied gains complexity and flavour
Difference between Bordeaux AOC and Bordeaux Superieur AOC
Bordeaux Superieur AOC has stricter regulations
- lower yield
- higher ABV requirement
- longer aging
What weather condition threatens Bordeaux?
Heavy rainfall due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean
Which grape is grown most extensively in Bordeaux?
Merlot
Name the 2 rivers of Bordeaux
Garonne and Dorgdone Rivers
Name 3 appellations on the left bank of Bordeaux
- Medoc AOC
- Graves AOC
- Sauternes AOC
Name 3 famous appellations on the right bank of Bordeaux
- St Emillion Grand Cru AOC
- St Emillion AOC
- Pomerol AOC
Merlot is more prominent on the right or left bank of Bordeaux?
Right bank as the soils are mainly clay and limestone. This enables Merlot to successfully ripen on the right bank
What grapes are blended with Merlot in the south of France?
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Grenache
- Syrah
Name 2 appellations in California that make robust full bodied Merlot
- Napa Valley
- Sonoma Coast
Which area of Chile is known for high yield and high volume Merlot?
Central Valley
Climate is warm and dry making it suitable for making soft easy drinking Merlot
Which area in South Africa is known for Bordeaux blends?
Stellenbosch
Which region in Australia is known for Bordeaux blend?
Margaret River
Majority of Merlot from New Zealand is from which region?
Hawke’s Bay on North Island
Can be single varietal or blended with styles ranging from light and approachable to full and age worthy
It’s moderate climate is suitable with ideal amount of rainfall
