In this blog we are going to tell you about Difference between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, so read this blog carefully to get the complete information.
Introduction
Red wine is one of the elegant and unique drinks appreciated globally and Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are two of them which are usually paired with different cuisines and sometimes used to prepare different dishes. Initially originated from Bordeaux France, Cabernet Sauvignon has become the most popular wine in the world within the 20th century and Merlot overshadowed it in the late 1990s. In America and other parts of the globe, both wines have been popular choices among people.
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Production of merlot and Cabernet is based on the side of the River Gironde. When grapes started growing in Bordeaux, people living on the left side of the bank used grapes to make Cabernet wine and people on the right side produced Merlot wine. Both Merlot and Cabernet are high quality red wines which differ in their tastes and some other aspects.
What is Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular wines globally which is often referred to as the king of red wine. Known for its durable and thick skin, its grape plant resists several elements including extremely harsh weather. The variety of this new grape breed became very popular across France and later, it became one of the most durable grape plants. People like to admire Cabernet Sauvignon as it lasts for years and matures in bottles. Also, it brings new flavors to wine after being distilled well in the oak. The end result comes as a richly flavored, medium acidic level and dark colored drink with a great alcohol content of over 13.5%.
What is Merlot?
Merlot means ‘The Little blackbird’ in French and the wine is characterized as being ripe, soft and elegant. It is often recommended to individuals who are relatively new to taking wine. In the 1700s, the grape was first used to make wine when a winemaker in France named it as an ingredient in the Bordeaux wine blend. Later, the grape became very popular to add softness to wine when combined with the Cabernet Sauvignon. Years later, Merlot became a household name and gained popularity all over the world. In the 1950s, the grape strain was introduced in California and the winemakers blended the wine as 100% Merlot that results in a soft wine with low tannin levels. At least 13% alcohol content is available in Merlot wine but the levels can rise especially if grown within warmer climates.
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Differences between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
- Origin – Cabernet Sauvignon originated from the left side of river Gironde while Merlot originated from the right side of the same river.
- Areas Grown – The grapes for Cabernet Sauvignon do well in gravelly soil that is well drained while the grapes for Merlot thrive in limestone and clay type of soils.
- Fruit Ripening – Cabernet Sauvignon grapes ripens faster than the Merlot grape.
- Types of Blends – Cabernet Sauvignon is used to add dryness to the wines which are too sweet. On the other hand, Merlot is often blended into wines that are too dry to add softness and sweetness.
- Taste – Merlot is sweet and soft in taste but Cabernet Sauvignon is dry.
- Price – Cabernet Sauvignon is more expensive than Merlot wine.
- Food Pairing – Cabernet Sauvignon has a strong aroma and flavor and it is best paired with richly flavored meals including steak, beef, lamb, burgers and red meats. Merlot has a softer taste and is best paired with almost any meal including seafood, chicken, pork, steak, beef and duck.
- Aroma – The aroma of Cabernet Sauvignon is sweet spices, black berries and blackcurrant while the aroma of merlot wine is mostly plum, mocha and chocolate.
Summary
Both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon originated from Bourdeaux France and with time, both blends have become the most popular red wines in the world.
Conclusion
I Hope this blog is sufficient enough to provide the information about Difference between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Thanks for reading this blog.
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