Cabernet Merlot

Cabernet Merlot wine is a blend of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and contributes to Bordeaux wine in France. Other varietals that can play a role in the Bordeaux blend are Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Carmenere. Depending upon the winemaker, region and style of the blend, the proportion of both grapes may vary. Bordeaux blends that are more Cabernet Sauvignon dominated tend to have grippier tannins, whereas when Merlot plays a leading role, they are often smoother with more red fruit notes.

Cabernet Merlot is referred to as a Bordeaux blend across the world, with different regions showcasing different flavours. From cooler regions like France, Italy and parts of USA you can expect tart black and red fruit with black pepper and tobacco leaf, black cherry and graphite. Warmer climates like Australia, Argentina and Spain show more ripe black fruit like blackcurrant and blueberry with undertones of chocolate, menthol and baking spices. Warmer climate wines can be bolder with riper tannins. Make sure you pour into an oversized red wine glass to collect all the exciting aromas before sampling.

Around 1.7 million acres of Bordeaux are planted, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, making it one of the most planted wines.

Overall, the wines are full-bodied, and can be very astringent, with medium to high acidity and high alcohol. These characteristics make this wine ideal for cellaring, with high-quality wines with grippy tannins can age beautifully over 10-15 years.

There are over 170 vineyards producing this varietal in Australia. You will find great examples in Yarra Valley, Barossa Valley and Hunter Valley.

Listed below are the wineries that produce Cabernet Merlot.

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