Merlot Grapes

[winep]

I want to buy Merlot grapes , for winemaking
are they better alone or mixed ?

 

[DoctorCAD]

Some wineries add around 15% Cab to them, but I think they do that after fermenting both kinds of grapes and blending the wines, not the grapes.

 

[Bartman]

California merlot tends to be better for blending as it is very intensely fruity. 'Experts' claim Washington Merlot grapes are better because they are not quite so fruity and a little lower alcohol level. I like Merlot on its own, but I will be blending fresh Merlot grapes with Cab. Sauv and Cab. Franc grapes in about a month.

 

[PaulS]

I have used some merlot to blend in with other wines. I have never actually made a wine using only merlot grapes because of availability and price. I would LOVE to give it a try. Perhaps I will make a 5 gallon batch.

 

[pete1325]

We made Merlot wine last year.....it came out very fruity with less body then I thought it would have. The color was also very light in the beginning (6 months) but is darkening up a bit as it ages. The year before we made Merlot (60%) and Syrah (40%) and it was fantastic! This year we plan on a Cab/Syrah blend....it should have more body, less fruity and darker. I can't wait!

 

[robie]

Many varietal wines are sold under then name of that varietal, but have a small percentage of other varietals blended in for mouth-feel, taste, and aroma. This is very typical. Merlot by itself is a great wine. Of course it all depends on what one likes.

 

[winep]

Merlot

I have decided half Merlot and half Cabarnet Savignon , we will see Saluta !!!