On the vast map of wine, few grapes have the ability to generate consensus. Merlot is one of them: friendly without being simple, classic without becoming old-fashioned. It is the wine that is shared without preamble, the one that is opened among friends or served at formal dinners. Its round and fruity personality makes it a gateway to the world of wine, but also a refuge for those seeking sophistication without harshness.
Originally from the right bank of Bordeaux, France, Merlot was born between the humid vineyards of Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. Its name comes from the black blackbird (merle), a bird that devoured ripe grapes, a symbol of its intense color and natural attractiveness. The first record of this strain dates back to 1784under the name Merlau, and since then it has been the protagonist in some of the most prestigious bottles on the planet, from Bordeaux châteaux to Italian super Tuscans.
Its story also has some mystique. Winemakers say that Merlot is the wine that “embraces” more than the one that imposes. Its velvety texture, soft tannins and aroma of black plum, ripe cherry, cocoa, dried herbs and tobacco make it universal. In cool climates it develops elegance and herbal notes; In warmer ones, it shows a more voluptuous character, with flashes of jam and chocolate. It is, in short, a versatile and empathetic wine, capable of speaking all languages of taste.
Today, Merlot is grown on almost every continent and is considered the second most planted grape in the world, with about 266 thousand hectaresonly behind Cabernet Sauvignon. France retains its birthplace, but regions such as Chile, California, Australia, Italy and Romania have developed their own styles that expand their sensory universe.
Merlot
In Mexico, the presence of Merlot has grown steadily in the last decade. The country has 9,477 hectares of vineyards distributed in 17 states, where Baja California, Querétaro and Coahuila stand out for their production of fine reds. According to recent figures from the sector, the National wine consumption is between 1.2 and 1.5 liters per capitaa constant increase compared to previous years.
Although during the first half of 2025 there was a drop in imports (-10.1% in volume and -1.4% in value), the average price increased 9.8%, reflecting a trend towards more selective consumption. Today, Mexicans buy fewer bottles, but of better quality. And within that conscious choice, Merlot maintains its place as one of the preferred grapes in the French-inspired red wine category.
Restaurateurs and sommeliers agree: Merlot is one of the wines that most easily integrates into the Mexican table. Its softness combines with heels skirt steak, Bolognese pasta, red meat, mole enchiladas or roast poultry. It even adapts to more contemporary pairings, such as gourmet burgers or mushroom-based dishes. This ability to harmonize with spicy flavors and fatty textures makes it a natural ally of our cuisine.
Despite the global contraction of wine production due to the effects of climate and inflation, Merlot remains firm. Its success lies in that double nature: sophisticated but close, accessible but profound. It is no coincidence that, every November 7, the world raises its glass to celebrate.
International Merlot Day not only commemorates a variety, but a philosophy: that of drinking without fear, of enjoying without solemnity. In a country where wine is still looking for space compared to beer and spirits, Merlot represents the kindest path towards wine culture. A bridge between European tradition and Mexican warmth, which every year gains more followers in wine bars, restaurants and home tables.
