International Merlot Day 07 November 2021

A very popular blending grape, Merlot is one of the main Bordeauxvarietals that includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and PetitVerdot and is the most widely planted grape in Bordeaux. Its name is believedto be derived from Merle – the French for blackbird

Since the evolution of New World wine it is now a star inits own right producing smooth, full bodied, inky purple coloured wines thatare high in alcohol with velvety tannins and hints of plums and blackberries.

Here are a few of our favourite York Wines Merlots:

Vistamar Merlot 2020, Central Valley, Chile £6.85

When it comes to New World wines, Chile is to Merlot asArgentina is to Malbec, they really seem to have a fabulous selection in all priceranges. This one doesn’t cost the earth and is fruity, smooth and easy drinking

Umbrele Merlot 2018, Recas Winery, Romania £7.65

A lovely soft blend of fruit and spice, you will be surprisedbut not disappointed at this fantastic find from Romania

Cortefresca Merlot 2020, Veneto, Italy £6.65

Red fruit, soft tannins, great every day drinking wine

Chateau Ladesvignes Merlot Cabernet Franc 2018, Bergerac,France £8.95

A fantastic full bodied Merlot blend from outside Bordeauxthat never disappoints from vintage to vintage, really recommended

Petrucco Merlot 2018, Fruili Colli Orientali DOC,Italy, £14.25

A standout stylish, powerful merlot from a lovely estate inFruili. Deep, rich, dark, fruity and smooth but with lovely integrated tannins.Italian Merlot at its best