Merlot is one of the most popular red grape varietals across the world. It is a versatile grape that can be used as a blending grape or for direct wine production. It is a soft grape with a dark-blue color and is an early ripening grape compared to its other Bordeaux wine competitors.

In terms of character, Merlot has a thinner skin and fewer tannins compared to a cabernet sauvignon. These grapes also tend to have higher sugar content. Merlot wines are known more for their texture rather than their flavor or taste.

Merlot is slowly gaining popularity in China as a grape varietal. Poplar wine regions like Hebei, Shandong are among those having vineyards dedicated to Merlot production. One of the major advantages of Merlot is the grape’s ability to blend well with other grape varietals. Wines made from a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are among the best-blended wines.