You know when when you just have a feeling that you're not supposed to admit to something? Fancing Michael Bublé for example, or Felicity Kendall (Digiboy!)? Secretly wishing 'Jedward' were still in the X-factor? Well, that's a little like enjoying Merlot these days.The 'Sideways Effect' saw Pinot Noir surge in popularity while Merlot sales plummeted after the film Sideways came out in 2004. Here, our friendly protagonist Miles screams at one point "If anyone orders Merlot I'm leaving, I am NOT drinking any F***ing Merlot!" He's referring to the gallons of cheap, sugary, unsophisticated Merlot-based glug-glug that can be found all over the US and elsewhere. Since then, millions have been sheepish about ordering it. What the film doesn't tell you however, is that there are stunning Merlots made around the world and occacsionally, just occasionally, Merlot is used to make some of the finest wines on the planet. Check out Chateau Pétrus in Bordeaux. You see, There's no need for embarrasment!
For me and Digiboy, Merlot is the singer-in-the-band. It has a voice as smooth as silk that washes over you with chocolatey tones and is easy listening, uncomplicated and as familiar as your comfiest pyjamas. Sure, there may have been some bad press in the past, but the following is now right back to where it used to be. Could the poster-boy for the Merlot grape variety be... Frank Sinatra?
If you pay attention, you'll realise that like Merlot, Frank isn't the most technically skilled and complex example of his type as he essentially just talks his way through songs (contraversial - but just my personal opinion!) And just like Merlot again, he had bad press in the past, but the formula still works. The man is a legend, a classic and millions have bought his records. Frank is a Merlot man we can all admit to liking!
Merlot produces soft, easy drinking wines with juicy red fruit flavours. Like Frank, it is the crowd-pleaser.
Wine Language Tasting Tour:
Chances are, you won't want to spend the £800-£6000 a bottle for Chateau Pétrus imediately, so try a few Italian Merlots (eg from Veneto, Friuli & Tuscany) and then move on to Australia and Chile. Next, try a St Emilion Bordeaux (from the right bank of the river) and enjoy a whole world of difference!
Hasta la Pasta,
Winebird x
