Merlot (New Zealand))
Most of New Zealand's Merlot wines comes from the Hawke's Bay region.
Merlot Flavors
Raspberry, Black Cherry, Plum, Tobacco and Vanilla are typical Merlot flavors.
 Raspberry |
 Black Cherry |
 Plum |
 Blackberry |
 Blueberry |
 Violets |
 Herbs |
 Pepper |
Tertiary Flavors from Aging:
 Vanilla |
 Coffee |
 Chocolate |
 Tobacco |
Merlot Profile
Merlot is a medium wine with medium tannins and acidity:
| BODY: | Medium - Plus |
| TANNINS: | Medium |
| FRUIT: | Medium |
| ACIDITY: | Medium - Plus |
| ALCOHOL: | 13-14% |
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Serving temperature: 14-15°C (57-59°F) Oaked 16-18°C (61-64°F) |
Merlot Food Pairing
Merlot goes well with a wide variety of food.
Sipped alone is a wonderful meditation wine.
 Finger Food |
 Pizza |
 Hamburger |
 Ham |
 Casseroles |
 Pasta |
 Mushroom |
 Chicken |
 Rabbit |
 Pork |
 Lamb |
 Veal |
Excellent Pairing
French Cuisine. Italian Dishes (Tomato Based).
Pizza. Baked Pasta. Lasagna.
Spaghetti Meatballs. Hamburger.
Fried or Grilled Mushrooms.
Casseroles. Beef Stew.
Veal Chops. Wiener Schnitzel.
Meatloaf. Beef Wellington.
BBQ. Chicken. Pork. Rabbit.
Roasted Lamb. Lamb Chops. Lamb Shank.
Red Meat Dishes.
The Ideal Glass for Merlot
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The Bordeaux Glass was designed for enjoying fuller-bodied, tannic red wines. They are taller than other red wine glasses, and has a slimmer bowl. The tall size allows the bouquet of the wine to develop, smooth out rough edges, play down tannins, and allow the wine to achieve balance. The slimmer bowl directs the wine to the back of your mouth for a maximum taste. |
