There are many different types of wine, and it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between Cabernet and Merlot wines. We will talk about their flavors, textures, and aromas, as well as their different pairings. We hope that this information will help you choose the right wine for your next dinner party or special occasion!
What is Cabernet?
Cabernet is a red wine grape that is grown in almost every wine-producing region in the world. The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is the most widely planted Cabernet and is used to produce wines with intense fruit flavors and firm tannins. Cabernet Franc, another Cabernet varietal, is often used as a blending grape and can add herbal and floral notes to a wine.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc are both descended from Cabernet Gros, a now-rare Cabernet variety that was once planted extensively in Bordeaux. Today, Cabernet is often blended with other red grapes, such as Merlot or Syrah. When made into a single-varietal wine, Cabernet can produce wines with deep color, complex flavor, and good aging potential. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the world’s most popular red wines and is produced in countries all over the globe.
What is Merlot?
Merlot is a red wine grape that is used as both a blending grape and for varietal wines. Merlot-based wines usually have soft tannins and are rounder and fruitier than wines made from other grapes. Merlot is a popular grape for blending because it can soften the harsher characteristics of other grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is also often used to make rose wine.
The Merlot grape is believed to be a descendant of the Cabernet Franc grape. It is thought to have originated in Bordeaux, France, and gets its name from the French word for “young blackbird,” which is “merle.” Merlot vines were brought to California in the 1800s, and the grape has since become one of the most widely planted red wine grapes in the state. Merlot wines are typically medium-bodied with flavors of blackberry, plum, and chocolate. Merlot is often aged in oak barrels, which can add vanilla and spice notes to the wine.
Difference between Cabernet and Merlot
Cabernet and Merlot are two of the most popular wines in the world. Cabernet is a full-bodied wine with high tannin levels, while Merlot is a more medium-bodied wine with lower tannin levels. Cabernet tends to have flavors of blackberry and cassis, while Merlot often has flavors of plum and chocolate. Cabernet is usually aged in oak barrels, while Merlot is often aged in stainless steel tanks. Cabernet pairs well with red meat, while Merlot pairs well with poultry or fish. Cabernet is typically more expensive than Merlot.
Conclusion
Cabernet and Merlot are both types of red wine, but there are several differences between the two. For one, Cabernet Sauvignon is typically a bit more expensive than Merlot. Additionally, Cabernet has a slightly higher alcohol content than Merlot. Finally, Cabernet is often considered to be a “smoother” wine than Merlot, with fewer tannins. So what’s the verdict? If you want an affordable red wine that still packs a punch, go for Merlot.
