Merlot is the second leading red varietal after Cabernet Sauvignon purchased by Americans today. California Merlot consumption was 19.3 million cases in 2009 in the U.S., growing dramatically from the 2.8 million cases sold in 1994.
What is the reason for Merlot's popularity? Industry observers offer possible explanations. Consumers who are new to wine may be trying red wine because of news reports linking moderate drinking to a healthy lifestyle. Also, white and blush drinkers may be expanding their preferences to red. Merlot may be the choice in both instances because of the soft, approachable and luscious character that is appealing to new and regular red wine drinkers. In restaurants, Merlot's average price is similar to the average price of the widely popular Chardonnay varietal, according to a "Wine & Spirits" magazine poll of restaurants.
The Merlot Grape
Merlot is one of the principal winegrape varieties of the Bordeaux region in France, and was brought to California in the mid-19th century. Historically, vintners have used Merlot as a blending grape to soften a wine, usually with Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot tannins are less forceful than Cabernet Sauvignon, so Merlot wine tends to mature earlier. Merlot is now primarily popular as a varietal wine. Most of the Merlot vines are planted in Lodi/San Joaquin County, followed by Napa, Sonoma and Monterey.
California Merlot Consumption in the U.S.*
(Millions of nine-liter cases)| 2009 | 19.3 |
|---|---|
| 2008 | 19.1 |
| 2007 | 19.0 |
| 2006 | 18.1 |
| 2005 | 17.3 |
| 2004 | 17.1 |
| 2003 | 16.0 |
| 2002 | 15.1 |
| 2001 | 13.3 |
| 2000 | 13.0 |
Source: Impact Annual Wine Study. History revised.
*California ships 72% of all Merlot volume to the U.S.
Top California Counties for Merlot Acreage, 2010
| Counties | Acreage |
|---|---|
| San Joaquin | 7,465 |
| Napa | 6,687 |
| Sonoma | 6,109 |
| Monterey | 5,603 |
| San Luis Obispo | 4,244 |
| Madera | 3,018 |
| Sacramento | 2,997 |
| Merced | 2,218 |
| Mendocino | 1,653 |
| Fresno | 1,202 |
| Yolo | 1,057 |
| Stanislaus | 672 |
| Santa Barbara | 559 |
| Lake | 500 |
| Tulare | 478 |
Source: California Department of Food & Agriculture
