By Wanda Haynes,
Certified Sommelier
Merlot is a dry red wine with tastes of black cherry, baking spices, cocoa powder, and cassis. Merlot is the most planted wine grape in Bordeaux, France, and the name merlot roughly translates to “little blackbird” and merlot is one of the noble grapes of France.
A poorly directed film in the 90’s baring the name merlot disrespected merlot causing popularity to wane, and sales to plummet. It’s amazing how media can reverse a wine lovers taste buds without any credibility.
However, merlot made a strong comeback and started earning well deserved recognition. Merlot pairs beautifully with pizza, sloppy Joes, veggie soups, and of course lasagna. Be sure to purchase a bottle that is 100% merlot and not a blend. Merlot is produced all over the world, France, Washington State, and Chile produce delicious merlot at a fair price.