Merlot Mayhem: Steer Clear of These Common Mistakes!
Merlot. The name itself conjures images of velvety smoothness, rich fruit, and easy-drinking pleasure. It’s a wine that has graced tables for centuries, enjoyed by casual drinkers and discerning connoisseurs alike. But don’t let its approachability fool you. Merlot, like any noble grape, demands respect. Treat it poorly, and you’ll be met with a wine that’s bland, boring, or downright unpleasant. This isn’t about snobbery; it’s about maximizing your enjoyment of this versatile varietal. So, before you pop that cork, let’s dive into the common pitfalls that can turn your Merlot experience into a Merlot mayhem – and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Serving Merlot Too Warm
This is perhaps the most frequent offense against good Merlot. Imagine a warm, summer’s day. Would you want a lukewarm glass of soda? Of course not! The same principle applies to Merlot. Serving it too warm (above 65°F or 18°C) mutes its vibrant fruit flavors and accentuates any alcoholic harshness. The result? A flabby, uninspiring wine that lacks vibrancy and finesse.
The Fix: Aim for a serving temperature between 60-65°F (15-18°C). If your bottle has been sitting at room temperature, pop it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes before serving. A wine thermometer is your best friend here, but if you don’t have one, err on the side of slightly too cool rather than too warm. The wine will warm up in the glass.
Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Glassware
Yes, the glass matters! All those fancy wine glasses aren’t just for show. The shape of the glass influences how the wine’s aromas and flavors are delivered to your nose and palate. A small, narrow glass will stifle Merlot’s expressive character, while a large, wide-bowled glass will allow it to breathe and reveal its full potential.
The Fix: Opt for a glass with a wide bowl that tapers slightly towards the rim. This shape allows the aromas to concentrate while providing ample surface area for the wine to aerate. A standard red wine glass will generally work well. Avoid small, tulip-shaped glasses, which are better suited for white wines.
Mistake #3: Pairing Merlot with Incompatible Foods
Food and wine pairing is an art, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. The key is to consider the wine’s body, tannins, and acidity and how they interact with the flavors and textures of the food. A delicate Merlot can be overwhelmed by a heavy, tannic dish, while a bold Merlot can overpower a light, subtle meal.
The Fix: Merlot is a remarkably food-friendly wine, but some pairings are definitely better than others. Generally, Merlot pairs well with roasted meats (chicken, pork, lamb), grilled vegetables, mushroom-based dishes, and medium-bodied cheeses. Avoid overly spicy foods, which can clash with the wine’s fruit flavors. Also, be cautious with very acidic dishes (like tomato-based sauces), as they can make the wine taste flat.
Mistake #4: Aging Merlot Incorrectly (or Aging the Wrong Merlot)
Not all Merlots are created equal, and not all Merlots are meant to be aged. While some high-end Merlots can benefit from years of cellaring, most commercially available Merlots are designed to be enjoyed within a few years of release. Trying to age a wine that isn’t built for it will only result in disappointment. The fruit will fade, the tannins will become harsh, and the wine will lose its vibrancy.
The Fix: Do your research! If you’re considering aging a Merlot, look for wines from reputable producers known for their age-worthy bottlings. These wines will typically have higher tannins, more concentrated fruit, and a balanced structure. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to err on the side of drinking the wine sooner rather than later. And remember, proper storage is crucial for aging wine. Keep it in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity.
Mistake #5: Overlooking the Vintage
The vintage, or the year the grapes were harvested, can have a significant impact on the quality and character of a wine. Weather conditions during the growing season can influence everything from the grape’s sugar levels and acidity to its tannins and overall flavor profile. A great vintage will produce wines that are balanced, complex, and age-worthy, while a poor vintage can result in wines that are thin, acidic, or lacking in flavor.
The Fix: Educate yourself about the different vintages in the regions where your favorite Merlots are produced. Wine publications and websites often publish vintage charts that provide detailed information about the growing conditions and the quality of the wines produced in each vintage. Knowing the vintage can help you make informed decisions about which wines to buy and when to drink them.
Mistake #6: Buying Solely Based on Price
While price can be an indicator of quality, it’s not the only factor to consider. A high price tag doesn’t guarantee a great wine, and a low price tag doesn’t necessarily mean the wine is bad. There are plenty of excellent Merlots available at reasonable prices, and there are plenty of overpriced wines that simply aren’t worth the money.
The Fix: Don’t be afraid to experiment and try wines from different regions and producers. Read reviews, ask for recommendations from your local wine merchant, and attend wine tastings to expand your palate. The best way to find great wines is to taste them yourself and discover what you enjoy.
Mistake #7: Not Paying Attention to the Producer
The producer, or the winery that makes the wine, can have a significant impact on the style and quality of the final product. Some producers are known for their traditional winemaking techniques, while others embrace modern technology. Some focus on producing high-end, age-worthy wines, while others specialize in easy-drinking, everyday wines. Knowing the producer can give you valuable insights into what to expect from their wines.
The Fix: Research the producers of the Merlots you enjoy. Visit their websites, read their tasting notes, and learn about their winemaking philosophy. This will help you develop a better understanding of their wines and make more informed purchasing decisions. Also, consider visiting wineries in person to experience their wines firsthand and learn about their history and traditions.
Mistake #8: Ignoring the “Sense of Place” (Terroir)
Terroir refers to the unique combination of environmental factors that influence the character of a wine, including the soil, climate, topography, and even the local flora and fauna. These factors can impart distinctive flavors and aromas to the wine that are specific to that particular region or vineyard. Ignoring the terroir is like ignoring the wine’s history and identity.
The Fix: Pay attention to the region where the Merlot is produced. Wines from different regions will have different characteristics. For example, Merlots from Bordeaux, France, tend to be more earthy and structured, while Merlots from California tend to be more fruit-forward and approachable. Explore wines from different regions to discover the diverse expressions of Merlot.
Mistake #9: Over-oaking
Oak aging can add complexity and flavor to Merlot, but too much oak can mask the wine’s natural fruit flavors and create a woody, artificial taste. Over-oaked wines can be unpleasant and unbalanced, lacking the vibrancy and freshness that make Merlot so enjoyable.
The Fix: Look for Merlots that are balanced and well-integrated, where the oak complements the fruit rather than overpowering it. Avoid wines that have excessive vanilla, toast, or spice notes, as these can be signs of over-oaking. The best Merlots will showcase the grape’s natural flavors and aromas, with the oak playing a supporting role.
For those eager to expand their knowledge, you can read more here: Merlot Mastery A Guide For Wine Enthusiasts And Casual Drunkards Alike.
Mistake #10: Not Decanting (Sometimes)
Decanting is the process of pouring wine from its bottle into a separate container, typically a glass decanter. This allows the wine to aerate, which can soften its tannins and release its aromas. While not all Merlots need to be decanted, some can benefit from it, especially young, tannic wines.
The Fix: If you’re drinking a young, full-bodied Merlot, consider decanting it for 30-60 minutes before serving. This will allow the wine to open up and reveal its full potential. However, be careful not to decant older, more delicate Merlots, as they can lose their flavors and aromas quickly.
| Mistake | The Fix |
|---|---|
| Serving too warm | Chill to 60-65°F (15-18°C) |
| Wrong Glassware | Use a wide-bowled red wine glass |
| Bad Food Pairing | Pair with roasted meats, mushrooms, medium cheeses |
| Incorrect Aging | Research aging potential, store properly |
| Ignoring Vintage | Educate yourself on vintage charts |
| Buying on Price Alone | Experiment, read reviews, attend tastings |
| Overlooking Producer | Research wineries and their philosophies |
| Ignoring Terroir | Pay attention to the wine’s region |
| Over-oaking | Look for balanced wines |
| Not Decanting (Sometimes) | Decant young, tannic wines |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Merlot a sweet or dry wine?
Merlot is typically a dry wine. While it can have fruity notes that might suggest sweetness, the residual sugar content is usually very low, making it fall firmly into the dry category.
Q2: What’s the best temperature to store Merlot?
The ideal storage temperature for Merlot, and most wines, is around 55°F (13°C). Consistent temperature is key to prevent premature aging or spoilage.
Q3: How long can I keep an opened bottle of Merlot?
An opened bottle of Merlot will generally last for 3-5 days if properly sealed and stored in the refrigerator. Use a wine stopper to minimize oxidation and preserve the wine’s flavors and aromas.
