Merlot vs Pinot Noir: What's the Best Wine for You?

  • Last Updated - 4/2/23
Merlot vs Pinot Noir

When it comes to red wine, there are many different types to choose from. Along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir are two of the most popular red varieties, but what’s the difference between them? And which one is best for you?

In this blog post, we will discuss the similarities and differences between Merlot and Pinot Noir. We will also help you decide which wine is the best choice for you!

Table of Contents

What is Merlot?

merlot descriptions medium bodied red wines

Merlot is the 2nd most produced and most popular red wine grape that is used as both a blending grape (for Cabernet Sauvignon wines) and as a single varietal. The Merlot grape is a dark-skinned grape that is native to the Bordeaux region (Right Bank) of France. 

In fact, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are siblings as both share their parent grape Cabernet Franc.

In the late 20th century, Merlot became increasingly popular in the United States. In part, this was due to the success of producers in California’s Napa Valley who focused on producing high-quality Merlot wines.

Today, Merlot is one of the most widely planted grapes in the world and it is used to produce a wide range of wines, from simple table wines to some of the most prestigious and expensive wines in the world.

Merlot wines are typically medium to full-bodied with soft tannins and flavors of plum and cherry. They can be enjoyed young or age well, making them a versatile choice for any occasion. 

What is Pinot Noir?

Sideways Effect

Pinot Noir is a type of red wine that has become increasingly popular in recent years. In 2004, the film “Sideways” propelled Pinot Noir wine to new levels of popularity and its only continued to grow in the years since. 

Pinot Noir is a red wine grape that is native to the Burgundy region of France. It is a thin-skinned grape that is notoriously difficult to grow. In fact, it is often referred to as the “Heartbreak Grape” because of its fickle nature. As a result, Pinot noir wines are typically more expensive than other red wines.

Despite the challenges, Pinot Noir has been planted all over the world and is used to produce a wide range of wines. Pinot Noir wines are typically light to medium-bodied with flavors of strawberry, cherry, raspberry and even earthy flavors with mushroom notes. Pinot noir wines are often described as “silky” or “velvety” due to their smooth texture. The best Pinot noirs are well-balanced, with round tannins and good acidity.

Merlot vs Pinot Noir

Merlot vs Pinot Noir Comparison

What are the Similarities Between Merlot and Pinot Noir?

  • Merlot and Pinot Noir are two of the most popular types of red wine.
  • Both grapes Pinot Noir and Merlot are native to France, and they are often used in blends. 
  • Both wines can benefit from being aged in oak barrels, which helps to deepen their flavors and add complexity.
  • Merlot and Pinot Noir are used to produce a wide range of wines, from simple table wines to some of the most prestigious and expensive wines in the world.

What are the Differences Between Merlot and Pinot Noir?

  • Merlot wines are typically full to medium bodied red wine with soft tannins and flavors of plum and cherry. While Pinot Noir wines are typically light to medium-bodied with flavors of strawberry, cherry, raspberry and even earthy/mushroom notes.
  • Merlot grapes are native to the Bordeaux region (Right Bank). While Pinot Noir grapes are native to the Burgundy region.
  • Merlot wines are typically more approachable and easy to drink, while Pinot Noir wines can be more complex.
  • Merlot vines are less fussy than Pinot Noir vines and as a result, Merlot wines are typically less expensive than Pinot Noir wines.
  • Pinot Noir is a black grape variety that produces light red wines, whereas Merlot is a blue-colored grape that produces darker red colored wines.

Is Pinot Noir Better Than Merlot?

The answer to this question really depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter bodied red wine with delicate flavors, then Pinot Noir may be the better choice for you. If you prefer a full-bodied red wine with bolder fruit flavors, then Merlot may be the better choice. Ultimately, the best wine is the one that you enjoy drinking. And with these two wines you can’t really go wrong.

Personally I truly like both a lot, but one of my favorite wines of all time is a Burgundian Pinot Noir wine. 

Is Pinot Noir or Merlot Sweeter?

red wine sweetness chart

Both Merlot and Pinot Noir are generally dry wines. However, some Merlot may come across as a sweet wine due to the ripe fruit-forward taste profile.

What is the Smoothest Red Wine to Drink?

 Merlot wines are typically more approachable and easy to drink, while Pinot Noir wines can be more complex. Merlot may be the best choice if you are looking for a smooth red wine. However some Pinot Noirs are velvety smooth and delicious in their own right.

What is the Taste Difference Between Pinot Noir and Merlot?

Merlot vs Pinot Noir Tasting Notes food pairings

Merlot wines are typically medium to full-bodied with soft tannins and tasting notes of plum and cherry. While Pinot Noir wines are typically light to medium-bodied with flavors of strawberry, cherry, raspberry and even earthy/mushroom notes. 

Summary

Merlot and Pinot Noir are two of the most popular red wine grapes. They are both native to France and used in a lot of blends. Merlot is typically more approachable with bolder fruit flavors, while Pinot Noir can be more complex. Merlot is also less fussy than Pinot Noir, making it typically less expensive. Ultimately, the best wine is the one that you enjoy drinking.

I hope this gives you a better understanding of Merlot vs Pinot Noir and helps you choose the best wine for you. Cheers! 

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