Pinot Noir and Merlot are red wines that rank among the top ten most popular wines worldwide. Today we are going to put them head to head and do a comparison of pinot noir vs merlot.
Both wines have their own unique characteristics that make them stand out in the wine world, and in this article, we will be diving into their flavor profiles, histories, and cultural significance.
Pinot Noir is known for its delicate and nuanced flavors, with notes of cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones. The grape is notoriously difficult to grow, but when done correctly, it can produce some of the most exceptional and highly sought-after wines in the world.
Merlot, on the other hand, is a fuller-bodied wine with richer, fruit-forward flavors such as blackberry, plum, and chocolate. It is often considered a more approachable wine than Pinot Noir, with a softer tannin profile and less acidity.
Introduction
For wine enthusiasts who enjoy exploring diverse wine styles and grape varieties, Pinot Noir and Merlot are two red wines that often spark interest.
Pinot Noir, known for its delicate and elegant profile, hails from the Burgundy region of France. In contrast, Merlot, with its smoother and fruitier characteristics, originates from the Bordeaux region.
Both wines have gained popularity worldwide, with numerous wine-producing regions cultivating these grapes and offering their unique interpretations.
We’ll compare these two wines based on their differences in:
● Acidity
● Tannins
● Body
● Color
● Aroma
● Taste
● Alcohol by Volume (ABV%)
● Food pairings
● Caloric Content
● Serving and Storage
So, if you want to understand more about merlot and pinot noir, you’ve come to the right place!
Importance of understanding their differences
Understanding the differences between Pinot Noir and Merlot can help wine enthusiasts make better-informed decisions when selecting wines for various occasions, from casual gatherings to formal dinners.
By learning about their unique characteristics, origins, and ideal food pairings, you can enhance your wine appreciation experience and choose the right wine to suit your palate or complement a specific meal.
In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of Pinot Noir and Merlot, providing a comprehensive comparison to guide you on your wine exploration journey.
Overview
These wines are made from black grapes native to France but are now grown in a variety of places across the world.
Pinot Noir is a thin-skinned grape that produces dry wines with low tannins, medium bodies, and bright acidities.
Pinot Noir can be an expensive red wine as it is not only popular but also difficult to cultivate. Merlot, on the other hand, produces wines with more tannins, a heavier body, and darker colors.
Merlot wines tend to come in a wide variety of flavors – from fruity to savory. Merlot is generally available in greater quantities, so the price varies significantly.
Be sure to also read my Sauvignon Blanc vs Pinot Grigio head to head comparison as well, I love doing this series.
History and Origins
Pinot Noir
You may be familiar with Pinot Noir red wine in part due to the 2004 film “Sideways,” which played a key part in its growing popularity.
Pinot Noir has a long and storied history, with its origins tracing back to the Burgundy region of France. The name “Pinot Noir” is derived from the French words for “pine” and “black,” referring to the grape’s tightly clustered, pinecone-shaped bunches and its dark color.
Pinot Noir has been cultivated for over 1,000 years, and it is believed that the grape was first domesticated by Cistercian monks in the 14th century. Throughout history, Pinot Noir has been highly regarded for its elegant and complex wines, making it a favorite among wine connoisseurs.
The Romans decided to grow vineyards in various places across the continent, resulting in a wide variety of Pinot Noir wines.
Primary growing regions
Pinot Noir grapes are notoriously difficult to grow as they requires very specific growing conditions to thrive. The best Pinot Noir wines are made in Burgundy, where the soil and climate conditions allow the variety to shine. Pinot Noir is also grown in France’s Champagne area, where it is used to make sparkling wines.
Pinot Noir expresses its trademark characteristics when grown in cooler climates, due to its acidity disappearing in climates with hot weather. It is also cultivated in Italy, Germany, Austria, the United States (for example the delightful Belle Glos pinot noir), Australia, South Africa, and Chile.
Although Pinot Noir’s spiritual home is in Burgundy, France, the grape has found success in several other regions worldwide. Some of the most notable Pinot Noir-producing regions include:
- Burgundy, France: Known for producing some of the finest and most sought-after Pinot Noir wines, such as those from the Côte d’Or.
- California, United States: Regions like Sonoma County, Russian River Valley, and Santa Barbara County have developed reputations for producing high-quality Pinot Noir wines.
- Oregon, United States: The cool-climate Willamette Valley is renowned for its distinctive and elegant Pinot Noir wines.
- New Zealand: Regions like Central Otago, Marlborough, and Martinborough are recognized for their vibrant and fruit-forward Pinot Noir wines.
- Australia: Cooler-climate regions such as Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, and Tasmania produce elegant and refined Pinot Noir wines.
As it is grown in so many different parts of the world, there are many names for it. In Italy Pinot Noir is called “Pinot Nero”, in Spain “Pinot Negro”, in Germany “Spätburgunder” and in Austria and the German-speaking part of Switzerland they call it “Blauburgunder”.
Merlot
Merlot traces its origins to the Bordeaux region of France, where it has been cultivated since the early 18th century.
The name “Merlot” is thought to come from the French word “merle,” meaning “blackbird,” possibly referencing the grape’s dark color or the birds’ fondness for the ripe fruit.
Merlot has historically been used both as a blending grape in Bordeaux’s famous red blends and as a stand-alone varietal, producing wines with smooth textures and rich fruit flavors.
Merlot does not have as long history as Pinot Noir. The oldest mention of the variety uncovered by wine historians dates from 1784, when a resident of Bordeaux claimed that Merlot was one of the best wines available at the time.
This leads historians to assume that this red wine existed before the 18th century, though no earlier references have been discovered.
The Merlot grape was once considered a “secondary” grape, and it was mostly used in blends with other wines by French winemakers. Fortunately, they recognized the potential of the merlot grape, and it is currently one of the most widely used stand-alone winemaking varieties.
France was devastated by a severe freeze in February 1956, destroying many Merlot grapes, and for the next few years, French vintners attempted to replant Merlot vines, only to be later damaged by rot.
In 1970 the French government banned vintners from planting new Merlot vines. The ban was lifted in 1975 and Merlot wines started regaining popularity. Occasionally this variety is used to produce rosé and white wines.
Primary growing regions
While Merlot’s roots are in Bordeaux, the grape has been successfully cultivated in various wine-producing regions around the world. Some of the most notable Merlot-producing regions include:
- Bordeaux, France: The Right Bank of Bordeaux, particularly appellations like Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, is famous for producing high-quality Merlot-dominated wines.
- California, United States: Napa Valley and Sonoma County are well-known for producing lush, fruit-forward Merlot wines, often with a touch of oak influence.
- Washington State, United States: The Columbia Valley and Walla Walla Valley regions produce Merlot wines with vibrant fruit flavors and a balanced structure.
- Tuscany, Italy: In the Bolgheri region, Merlot is often blended with other Bordeaux grape varieties to create “Super Tuscan” wines, which can be rich and full-bodied.
- Chile: The Central Valley, particularly the Colchagua Valley and Maipo Valley, is recognized for producing Merlot wines with a unique combination of fruitiness and herbal notes.
Additionally, you will find Merlot cultivated in Spain, Argentina, Australia, Bulgaria and even China, since it can easily adapt to various soil-climatic conditions. Merlot has had over 50 synonyms but now, for the most part, Merlot wines will be labeled as such. However, some of its common synonyms are “Alicante”, “Merlau”, “Sémillon Rouge”, “Plan du Médoc” and “Saint-Macaire”.
Grape Characteristics
Pinot Noir Grape Traits
Pinot Noir grapes are known for their thin skins and tightly clustered, cone-shaped bunches. The thin skin contributes to the wine’s lighter color and lower tannin levels compared to other red wines.
Pinot Noir grapes are highly sensitive to their environment and can be quite challenging to cultivate. They are prone to various diseases and susceptible to weather-related issues, such as frost and rot.
These grapes prefer cooler climates, where they can ripen slowly and develop their characteristic flavors and aromas. The resulting wines typically showcase a wide range of red fruit flavors, such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, along with earthy and floral notes.
Merlot Grape Traits
Merlot grapes have a thicker skin than Pinot Noir grapes, which contributes to their more robust structure and higher tannin levels. They are generally larger in size and have looser bunches, making them less susceptible to diseases and rot.
Merlot grapes are more adaptable to various climates than Pinot Noir, thriving in both cool and warm regions. In cooler climates, Merlot wines tend to showcase red fruit flavors like cherry and raspberry, while in warmer climates, they exhibit riper, darker fruit flavors like plum and blackberry. Merlot wines are often characterized by their velvety texture and approachable, fruit-forward profile.
Comparison of Grape Growing Conditions
Pinot Noir and Merlot grapes have different preferences when it comes to growing conditions. Pinot Noir thrives in cooler climates, where it can ripen slowly and maintain its natural acidity, resulting in more delicate and nuanced wines. In contrast, Merlot can adapt to a wider range of climates, producing different styles of wine depending on the temperature and terroir.
Both grape varieties require careful attention in the vineyard to achieve optimal ripeness and quality. However, Pinot Noir is generally considered more challenging to cultivate due to its sensitivity to diseases, pests, and weather conditions. Merlot, with its thicker skin and looser grape clusters, tends to be more resilient and easier to grow.
Wine Styles and Tasting Notes
Pinot Noir
Typical flavors and aromas
Pinot Noir wines are celebrated for their complex and diverse flavor profiles. Depending on the region and winemaking techniques, Pinot Noir wines can exhibit a range of red fruit flavors such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, accompanied by earthy notes like mushroom, forest floor, and wet leaves.
Floral aromas, such as rose and violet, along with subtle spice and herbal nuances, can also be present. In wines aged in oak, you may detect hints of vanilla, toast, or smoke.
Mouthfeel and body
Pinot Noir wines typically have a lighter body and lower tannin levels compared to other red wines, due to the grape’s thin skin.
The mouthfeel is often described as silky or velvety, with a bright acidity that provides balance and structure. Pinot Noir wines can vary in intensity and concentration, with some examples being delicate and ethereal, while others offer a more robust and concentrated expression of the grape.
Merlot
Typical flavors and aromas
Merlot wines showcase a fruit-forward profile, with flavors ranging from red fruits like cherry and raspberry in cooler climates to darker fruits such as plum, blackberry, and black currant in warmer regions.
Merlot wines often display notes of chocolate, mocha, or cocoa, along with herbal and earthy undertones, such as green bell pepper, tobacco, or graphite. Oak aging can add layers of vanilla, cedar, or toast to the wine’s aroma profile.
Mouthfeel and body
Merlot wines are known for their smooth, velvety texture and medium to full body. Tannins in Merlot wines are generally softer and more approachable than those found in other red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, making Merlot an ideal choice for those who prefer a more gentle red wine experience.
The wines usually have a moderate acidity level, which contributes to their overall balance and drinkability.
Key differences and similarities between the wines
The main differences between Pinot Noir and Merlot wines lie in their flavor profiles, body, and tannin structure. Pinot Noir wines are often lighter in body, with delicate red fruit flavors, earthy nuances, and a bright acidity.
Merlot wines, on the other hand, are typically more fruit-forward and full-bodied, with riper fruit flavors, a smoother texture, and softer tannins.
Despite their differences, both Pinot Noir and Merlot share some similarities.
Both wines are known for their velvety mouthfeel and can exhibit a range of fruit flavors depending on the region and climate in which they are grown. Additionally, both Pinot Noir and Merlot can benefit from oak aging, which can add complexity and depth to their flavor profiles.
Winemaking Techniques
Pinot Noir production methods
Winemaking techniques for Pinot Noir can vary significantly depending on the region and winemaker’s preferences. However, there are some common practices that contribute to the wine’s distinct characteristics:
Fermentation: Many winemakers choose to use native yeasts for fermentation, which can enhance the wine’s complexity and terroir expression. Some producers may also employ whole-cluster fermentation, where entire grape bunches, including stems, are fermented. This technique can impart additional tannin structure and spicy, herbal notes to the wine.
Oak aging: Pinot Noir wines can be aged in oak barrels, which adds layers of flavor and contributes to the wine’s overall structure. The choice of oak type, barrel size, and aging duration can significantly impact the wine’s flavor profile. Some winemakers opt for a more subtle oak influence to preserve the delicate nuances of the grape, while others prefer a bolder oak presence to enhance the wine’s depth and complexity.
Filtration and fining: Some winemakers choose not to filter or fine their Pinot Noir wines, believing that these processes can strip away desirable flavors and aromas. Unfiltered and unfined Pinot Noir wines may appear slightly hazy but can offer a more concentrated and expressive representation of the grape.
Merlot production methods
Like Pinot Noir, Merlot winemaking techniques can differ based on regional and stylistic preferences. Some common practices include:
Fermentation: Merlot is typically fermented in stainless steel or temperature-controlled tanks, allowing for precise control over the fermentation process. This helps preserve the grape’s fruity characteristics and results in a more approachable and fruit-forward wine.
Maceration: Extended maceration, where the grape skins are left in contact with the juice for an extended period, can be employed to extract additional color, tannins, and flavor compounds from the grape skins, resulting in a more structured and full-bodied wine.
Oak aging: Merlot wines are often aged in oak barrels, which can add complexity and richness to the wine. The choice of oak type, barrel size, and aging duration will impact the wine’s flavor and aroma profile. Oak aging can contribute notes of vanilla, toast, and spice, complementing the wine’s fruity and herbal characteristics.
Unique practices and their impact on wine characteristics
Different winemaking practices can have a significant impact on the resulting wine’s characteristics, even when using the same grape variety. For example, whole-cluster fermentation in Pinot Noir can lead to a more structured and savory wine, while extended maceration in Merlot can produce a bolder, more full-bodied wine.
Similarly, the choice of oak aging can influence the wine’s flavor profile, adding layers of complexity and depth. A more restrained oak influence may preserve the delicate fruit flavors in Pinot Noir, while a bolder oak presence can enhance Merlot’s richness and body.
Ultimately, the winemaking techniques employed by the winemaker can greatly impact the final expression of Pinot Noir and Merlot wines, allowing for a wide range of styles and interpretations of these popular red wine varieties.
Which One Should You Choose?
When choosing between Pinot Noir and Merlot, there are several factors to consider that can help you decide which wine is right for you. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- Flavor profile: Pinot Noir is known for its lighter body, delicate flavors, and high acidity, while Merlot is typically fuller-bodied with richer, fruit-forward flavors.
- Food pairing: Pinot Noir is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, including chicken, fish, and mushroom-based dishes. Merlot, on the other hand, pairs well with richer, heartier dishes such as beef and lamb.
- Price point: Pinot Noir can be more expensive than Merlot due to its difficult cultivation process and lower yields. However, there are also affordable options available for both varietals.
- Occasion: Pinot Noir is often considered a more elegant and refined wine, making it a popular choice for special occasions and events. Merlot is a more approachable and easy-drinking wine that is often enjoyed on more casual occasions.
Pinot Noir vs Merlot: A Comparison
Now that we are familiar with those two wine varieties, let’s take a comprehensive look at how they differ in terms of the individual characteristics.
| Characteristic | Pinot Noir | Merlot |
| Acidity | High | Moderate |
| Tannins | Silky and low | Soft but noticeable |
| Body | Light to medium | Medium to full |
| Color | Light | Medium dark to opaque |
| Aromas | Red fruit (cranberries, raspberries, red cherries) and earthy notes (mushrooms) | Plum, black cherries, mocha, vanilla, caramel, chocolate |
| Taste | Cherry, raspberry, mushroom, forest floor and notes of vanilla and baking spice when aged in oak | Graphite, herbs, blackberries, black cherries, plums, cocoa and notes of vanilla, clove and cedar when aged in oak |
| Alcohol by Volume (ABV) | 12-15% | 13-14% |
| Food Pairings | Light red meats (duck and lamb), white meats (turkey and chicken), salmon, mushroom risotto, pasta and vegetables. Avoid spicy and overly flavored dishes | Chicken, turkey, burgers and pizza with fruity Merlots. Game meat, lamb and beef with fuller-bodied Merlots |
| Calories | About 125 calories in a 5 oz serving | About 125 calories in a 5 oz serving |
| Serving & Storage | 55 to 65°F. Closer to 55°F for lighter bodied Pinot Noirs and closer to 65°F for fuller bodied ones. If recorked and refrigerated the wine will stay fresh for 1 to 3 days | 60 to 65°F. If recorked and refrigerated the wine will stay fresh for 2 to 4 days. |
Food Pairing
Let’s explore food pairing for both of these great wines.
Ideal food pairings for Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a medium-bodied red wine with a delicate flavor and aroma profile that makes it a versatile choice for food pairing. Some ideal food pairings for Pinot Noir include:
- Poultry: Pinot Noir pairs well with poultry dishes such as roast chicken, turkey, or quail. Its bright fruit flavors and subtle tannins complement the flavors of the bird and help to bring out the best in both the wine and the food.
- Pork: Pinot Noir’s fruity flavors also make it a great pairing for pork dishes, particularly those with a slightly sweet or fruity component, such as glazed ham or pork tenderloin with a fruit glaze.
- Mushroom dishes: The earthy flavors of mushrooms pair well with the subtle fruit flavors of Pinot Noir. Consider pairing the wine with a mushroom risotto, mushroom-based pasta dish, or grilled portobello mushrooms.
- Salmon: Pinot Noir’s bright fruit flavors and moderate acidity make it a great pairing for salmon dishes. Consider serving it with grilled salmon, salmon en croute, or salmon with a fruity sauce.
- Beef: Pinot Noir can also work well with certain types of beef dishes, particularly those that are not too heavily seasoned or grilled. Consider pairing it with a roast beef tenderloin or a beef pot roast.
- Game meats: Venison, quail, and pheasant can enhance the earthy, gamey elements in Pinot Noir.
- Cheese: Mild, creamy cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and goat cheese complement the wine’s delicate flavors and acidity.
When pairing Pinot Noir with food, it’s important to consider the wine’s flavors and the overall balance of the dish. Pinot Noir’s delicate flavors can be overwhelmed by bold, heavily seasoned dishes, so it’s often best to pair it with more subtle, lightly seasoned dishes that allow the wine’s flavors to shine. In general, Pinot Noir is a versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of dishes, making it a great choice for many different occasions.
Ideal food pairings for Merlot
Merlot is a type of red wine that is known for its smooth, fruity, and medium-bodied flavor profile.
When it comes to food pairing, merlot is a very versatile wine that goes well with a wide range of dishes. Here are a few suggestions for foods that pair well with merlot:
- Beef: Merlot’s fruity and smooth flavor profile makes it a great pairing for grilled or roasted beef dishes. It can stand up to the bold flavors of a steak and also complement the richness of a slow-cooked roast.
- Lamb: Roasted or grilled lamb dishes can complement the wine’s herbal and earthy undertones.
- Pasta: Tomato-based pasta dishes, like spaghetti bolognese or lasagna, can highlight Merlot’s fruitiness and acidity.
- Pork: Merlot is also a great choice for pairing with pork dishes, especially those that are grilled or roasted. The wine’s fruity flavors can help to cut through the richness of the meat and add balance to the dish.
- Cheese: Merlot’s fruity flavors can also pair well with a variety of cheeses, such as brie, camembert, and blue cheese. The wine’s smooth texture can help to balance out the creamy texture of these cheeses.
Overall, Merlot is a very versatile wine that can be paired with a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats to mushroom-based dishes and cheese plates. When choosing a food pairing for merlot, it’s important to consider the wine’s fruity and smooth flavor profile, as well as its moderate tannins.
Tips for selecting the right wine for a meal
When choosing the right wine for a meal, consider the following tips:
- Match the intensity: Select a wine that matches the intensity of the dish. For example, a lighter-bodied wine like Pinot Noir works well with delicate dishes, while a more full-bodied wine like Merlot can stand up to bolder flavors.
- Balance flavors: Consider the flavors and characteristics of both the wine and the dish. If the dish has strong flavors or a rich sauce, a wine with bright acidity, like Pinot Noir, can help balance the palate. On the other hand, a fruit-forward wine like Merlot can complement dishes with sweeter or spicier elements.
- Consider regional pairings: Wines often pair well with dishes from the same region, as they share similar flavor profiles and ingredients. For example, a French Pinot Noir might pair well with a traditional Coq au Vin, while an Italian Merlot could complement a classic Osso Buco.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings, as personal taste preferences can play a significant role in what works best for you. Use the suggested pairings as a starting point, and let your palate guide you in discovering new and enjoyable combinations.
Market Trends and Insights
Current market trends for Pinot Noir and Merlot
Both Pinot Noir and Merlot continue to maintain their popularity in the global wine market. Pinot Noir has experienced steady growth, particularly due to increased consumer interest in elegant, lighter-bodied red wines. This trend is driven in part by the growing popularity of cool-climate wine regions, such as Oregon in the United States and Central Otago in New Zealand, which are known for producing high-quality Pinot Noir wines.
Merlot, once overshadowed by the so-called “Sideways effect” (a reference to the 2004 film in which the protagonist disparages Merlot), has made a strong comeback in recent years. The grape has reestablished its reputation as a versatile and approachable red wine, with winemakers from regions like Washington State, Bordeaux, and Tuscany producing high-quality, sought-after Merlot wines.
Pricing and consumer preferences
Pinot Noir and Merlot wines can span a wide range of prices, from affordable, everyday bottles to high-end, collectible wines. Pinot Noir, due to its finicky nature and the challenges associated with growing the grape, can command higher prices, particularly for wines from renowned regions like Burgundy or those crafted by prestigious winemakers.
Merlot wines, on the other hand, tend to be more accessible in terms of price, with many quality options available at affordable price points. This makes Merlot an appealing choice for consumers seeking a high-quality red wine that doesn’t break the bank.
In terms of consumer preferences, there is a growing interest in wines that showcase a sense of place or terroir. This trend favors both Pinot Noir and Merlot, as both grape varieties can express distinct characteristics based on the region and climate in which they are grown.
Future outlook for both wine varieties
The future outlook for both Pinot Noir and Merlot appears promising. Pinot Noir is likely to continue enjoying strong demand as consumers seek out elegant, terroir-driven wines from cool-climate regions. Additionally, the ongoing exploration and development of new Pinot Noir-growing regions worldwide may result in the emergence of exciting new styles and expressions of the grape.
Merlot’s resurgence in popularity is expected to persist, with winemakers continuing to focus on producing high-quality, expressive wines that showcase the grape’s versatility and potential for complexity. As a result, Merlot may further strengthen its position as a go-to red wine for consumers who appreciate its approachable and fruit-forward nature.
Ultimately, both Pinot Noir and Merlot are likely to remain essential components of the global wine market, with ongoing innovation in winemaking techniques and regional exploration contributing to the continued evolution and appreciation of these beloved red wine varieties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
There isn’t a definitive answer to whether Merlot is better than Pinot Noir, as it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and individual tastes. Both wines have their unique characteristics, and each one can be enjoyed for different reasons. It’s best to try both varieties to determine which one suits your palate better.
Neither Merlot nor Pinot Noir is typically considered a “sweet” wine, as both are dry red wines. However, Merlot tends to have a more fruit-forward profile, which may give the impression of sweetness. Pinot Noir usually has a brighter acidity and a more delicate flavor profile, so it might taste less sweet in comparison. That said, the perception of sweetness can vary depending on the specific wine and the individual’s taste preferences.
Both Pinot Noir and Merlot are easy-drinking wines, but they differ in their characteristics. Pinot Noir is known for its lighter body, bright acidity, and complex flavors, making it a versatile and approachable wine. Merlot, on the other hand, has a smoother texture, more fruit-forward flavors, and softer tannins, which can make it easier to drink for those who prefer a less acidic wine. Ultimately, the ease of drinking will depend on your personal preferences.
Pinot Noir is often considered a classy wine, particularly because of its association with the prestigious wine region of Burgundy, France. Its delicate, complex flavors and elegant mouthfeel have earned it a reputation as a refined and sophisticated wine. However, it’s essential to note that the quality and “classiness” of a wine can vary depending on the producer, region, and vintage.
Merlot can also be considered a classy wine, as it is a key grape variety in many prestigious wine regions, including Bordeaux, France. Its versatility, approachable nature, and potential for complexity have contributed to its reputation as a high-quality and sophisticated wine. As with Pinot Noir, the quality and “classiness” of a Merlot will depend on factors such as the producer, region, and vintage.
Conclusion
Red wines are often a matter of personal preference as to which wine you prefer. Merlot and Pinot Noir are both outstanding wines. The tannins in Merlot may be delightful to some, but they may be overbearing to others.
The acidity of Pinot Noir is the same way. Pinot Noir has the advantage of being able to make sparkling wines, and this style has a large following of its own, although Merlot has a wider range of taste and aromatic profiles, making it easier to select one that suits your preferences.
Remember that each wine expresses different characteristics depending on the part of the world where the vine is grown and the winemaking techniques followed, so wines of the same variety might be completely different. I invite you to host your own wine tasting events to find the perfect match for you.
