European Merlot
Merlot is the most widely planted varietal in the Bordeaux region of France. Traditionally, Merlot has been blended with Cabernet Sauvignon to soften some of its more forceful qualities.
In the Medoc, Merlot takes a decided backseat to Cabernet Sauvignon. Chateau Palmer is the exception in the Cab-dominated, Left Bank Medoc blends. This wine is over one-half Merlot.
However, it is the principal grape on the Right Bank of the Gironde. Merlot has reached its zenith in the clay based soils of Pomerol and St Emilion. Chateau Petrus is the most famous producer of these wines. This is a fabulous wine, but it is one of the most expensive in the world.
The varietal is also planted in Italy, Switzerland, and the Balkans. The grape usually ripens about a week earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon and is often grown as a type of insurance policy.
