Cabernet Merlot

Cabernet Merlot wine is a blend of 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.

Around 1.7 million acres of Bordeaux are planted, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, making it one of the most planted wines. Over 170 vineyards produce this varietal in Australia. Great examples are found in Yarra Valley, Barossa Valley, and Hunter Valley.

Aromas

The aromatic profile of Cabernet Merlot is rich and inviting, with blackberry, cassis, red plum, and cherry and herbal notes of bay leaf, mint, or eucalyptus. You may also find spice and oak aromas like vanilla, cocoa, cedar, and clove from oak maturation. Tertiary aromas of leather, dried tobacco, and earthy tones can be found in aged wines.

Flavours

The Cabernet Merlot blend showcases a balance of red and dark fruit flavours, complemented by savoury and spice notes. Cabernet Sauvignon contributes blackcurrant, blackberry, cedar, mint, and tobacco. Merlot contributes plum, cherry, chocolate, and soft herbal undertones. When blended, you will get ripe fruit flavours with layers of vanilla, clove, or mocha, especially oak-aged.

Tannin and Body

It has medium to high tannins, with Cabernet contributing firm, structured tannins and Merlot adding softer, rounder tannins, creating balance. Depending on the proportions of the blend and winemaking style, it is medium to full-bodied.

Cool v Warm climate

The climate significantly influences the style and character of Cabernet Merlot wines:

Cool-climate wines have flavours of fresh red and dark fruits like red currant, cranberry, and blackberry with pronounced herbal and earthy notes. They have higher acidity, leading to a vibrant, crisp profile. Leaner and more elegant tannins lead to restrained fruit flavours. They are structured and age-worthy, often with a more savoury finish. You will find these in regions like Bordeaux (Left Bank for Cabernet-dominant, Right Bank for Merlot-dominant blends) and cooler regions in New Zealand and Canada.

Warm-climate wines have flavours of ripe black fruits like black cherry and plum, with softer herbal elements and bold oak influence. Lower acidity gives a plush, velvety mouthfeel. Riper and rounder tannins give a more opulent texture. They are fuller-bodied, fruit-forward, and approachable in youth. You will find these in regions like Napa Valley, Australia (Margaret River), and parts of South America.

Listed below are the wineries that produce Cabernet Merlot.

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