Merlot

Merlot is a close cousin to the Cabernet Sauvignon. Dark blue in colour, Merlot is a primary Bordeaux wine grape, where it is one of the most widely planted. Merlot grapes form in loose bunches of large berries, with thin skins and few tannins. Merlot grapes can produce both red and white wine varieties, which generally have a high sugar, but low acid content. Grapes can be harvested early to maintain the acidity levels and finesse of wines produced, however late harvesting can give added fruit body, due to a slight over ripeness.