The second famous red grape of Bourdaux

and one that has been on a relentless expansion

drive throughout the world in the last decade.

Merlot is adaptable to most soils and is relatively simple to grow. It is vital to pick at optimum ripeness as Merlot can quickly lose its characteristics if harvested late. It is responsible for that delicious, plummy, soft style of wine and is an ideal blend with the more austere Cabernet and gives great colour and sweetness.

In St.Emilion and Pomerol it withstands the moist clay rich soils far better than Cabernet grapes, and at it best produces rich, plummy clarets with succulent raisin fruit.

It also plays a key role in filling out the palate of the Cabernet Sauvignon wines of the Médoc and Graves.It has also become extremely popular throughout the world in both its blended and varietal form, especially in Italy, Australia and Chile.