Cabernet VS Merlot

Cabernet and Merlot wines are most widely grown red wine grapes in the world. Both came from the Bordeaux region of France in the 1600-1700s. Even though the taste of the wines varies on whether it is grown in a cool or hot climate, Cabernet is known to be much bolder than Merlot. Merlot grapes are naturally thinner, making it a much lighter in color.

Noteworthy Cabernet Grape Locations:
Bordeaux, Tuscany, Sonoma County, Napa Valley

Noteworthy Merlot Grape Locations:
Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley, Chilean Central Valley

What is tannin?

This is the power of wine to make you pucker your lips. Red, younger wines have more tannin because they have yet to soften up.

Pros & Cons of Cabernet

Pros: Savory, high tannin, age-worthy, long-finish, good for gift-giving
Cons: Expensive, high tannin, can have an abrasive taste

Pros & Cons of Merlot

Pros: Fruity, goes good with food, smooth finish, cheaper
Cons: Not very complex, not as respected as cabernet

Pair with Food With Cabernet:

Because this wine is bold in flavor and high tannin, it can sometimes overwhelm foods that are delicate. Therefore cabernets don’t always pair with food. If it is an aged cabernet, it might have the potential pair well. Since it is a heavier wine, aged cabernets will go well with heavier foods that will offset the tannins. For example, steak with a heavy sauce will be a good pairing. Avoid hot, spicy foods because the tannins will heighten the flavor.

Pair with Food With Merlot:

Merlots are known for pairing with all sorts of foods. Because it is delicate, it will pair well with salmon, mushroom dishes, and scallops. Avoid blue-veined cheeses that will overwhelm the wine with their flavor.

Cabernet vs. Merlot Fun Fact: While both Merlot and Cabernet can stand alone, they can also be blended together because they balance each other. Adding Merlot to Cabernet will soften it up and the Cabernet will add some boldness to the Merlot.