Merlot

In spite of comprising 50% of the most expensive wine in the world (Château Cheval Blanc 1947), Merlot has had a somewhat turbulent relationship with wine drinkers. The wine has faced many environmental hurdles that has disrupted its supply, and France even went so far as to ban the planting of Merlot vines for five years in the 70s. It has also, and more famously, been susceptible to the dramatic swings of trends and public opinion. The most well-known example, known as ‘The Sideways Effect’, saw demand and sales plummet following a reference made by a character in a movie. Yet Merlot continues along; it is the most widely planted variety in France and the second most in the world. It is loved for its approachability, its ability to age, its fullness of flavour and for its humility. Don’t listen to the madding crowd – let the wine do the talking. Merlot is a world of joy waiting to be discovered.