Malbec or Merlot: What are the Differences Between these Wines.

Malbec and Merlot are the names of the two most popular red wines around the world. The Malbec grape is native to France, where it was known simply as Cot. It stopped being popular in its terroir of origin to become the emblematic Argentine variety. Here it found the perfect conditions to show its full potential. The Merlot grape is also French, widely cultivated throughout that country and the world. In Argentina, it has also found a terroir where it is grown successfully, giving its best

However, when choosing one or the other varietal, it is hard to decide on one of the two. Which one will I enjoy more according to my consumption preferences? What are the differences between Malbec and Merlot? Which one is more convenient for a particular dish or situation? Here are the answers to these and other questions in our comparison between Malbec and Merlot.

What are the differences between Merlot and Malbec?

Are Merlot and Malbec the same grape?

The answer is NO.  Different varieties of grapes are used to make these wines.

The Merlot grape originates from the southwest of France, specifically from the Bordeaux region, which has become one of the traditional vines in an area of great wines. So, this grape variety is, after Cabernet Sauvignon, the second most widespread red variety worldwide.

On the other hand, Malbec is a grape with very dark skin,  originated in the southwest of France. It typically matures in the middle of the growing season and produces small, intensely coloured grapes. But remember that terroir makes every wine unique. For example, French Malbec tends to be meatier, more rustic and tannic. And Argentina makes richer, riper, juicier wines with hints of jam.

Is Merlot or Malbec sweeter?

Malbec is a bit sweeter than Merlot. However, none of these wines is considered sweet. Wine experts classified them as dry. You can see more information here

Where is Malbec produced?

Argentina is the world’s largest producer, with 76,700 hectares. The three main regions are Mendoza, San Juan and Salta.

– The second country is France, his native country, with 15,000 hectares in three main regions: Southeast, Bordeaux and the Loire Valley

– The United States produces 3,400 hectares in three main regions: California, Washington and Oregon

– Chile produces 2,500 hectares in three main regions: Colchagua, Curicó and Cachapoal

– Australia produces 1,100 hectares in two main regions: South Australia and Victoria

– Finally, New Zealand produces only 200 hectares in two main regions: Gisborne and Hawkes Bay

Where is Merlot produced?

Merlot is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world. This grape variety is the most common in France, with 115,000 cultivated hectares. And the most important regions are Bordeaux, Bergerac and Cahors.

In the second place, we have Italy, with 25,614 hectares. Lastly, the United States is in third place with 23073 hectares in California and Washington.

Other countries that produce Merlot

Finally, Merlot is also cultivated in Mexico, Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, India, Japan and China.

What do Malbec and Merlot have in common?

Both wines are dry and are served between 15-20°C (60-68°F. Also, their ABV (alcohol by volume) is about 13.5 -15%. 

As these wines age, their bright hues turn into more brownish hues. On the other hand, these wines aroma can vary depending on the terroir in which they were grown.

How to pair Malbec and Merlot?

We recommend drinking water before, during and after the wine, as it will help keep your mouth hydrated to enjoy the experience of the taste of the grape and the food.

Malbec goes very well with red meats, grilled meats, hard cheeses and pasta with tomato sauce. So, Malbec is the perfect red wine to accompany roast beef, stews, cheese sauces, and game meats.

On the other hand, you can pair Merlot with fatty fish such as tuna, salmon and cod, grilled or roasted meats, hamburgers, pasta prepared with tomato sauce. Besides, this wine goes very well with dark chocolate-based desserts, fondue, grilled vegetables such as pumpkins or carrots.

Conclusion

Choosing a wine is subjective. The most important thing is to buy a good quality wine, whether it is a Merlot or a Malbec. But first of all, you should think about what food you are going to pair them with.

To sum up, if you like a dryer wine, Merlot is probably your best bet, but if you like wine that is less acid and a bit more on the sweeter side, give Malbec a try.

Generally, the Malbec wines are full-bodied, while Merlot wines are medium full-bodied. Some flavours of Merlot include cherry, plum, chocolate, vanilla and bay leaf. Malbec can also be made in various flavours. These include red plum, blackberry, vanilla, cocoa and sweet tobacco. Besides, Merlot is often more tannic than Malbec. Lastly, remember that the warm and cool climate of different places also affects the taste of the wine.