Malbec vs. Merlot Tasting Guide | Total Wine & More A mature beef brings out the fruitiness in a vintage Syrah, and the gentle spices in Moroccan dishes also work well with it. Some Shiraz will smell like a normal full-bodied, Thats right! Shutterstock In French, Merlot means The Little Black Bird. Understanding the main differences between Merlot and Shiraz will not only save you a lot of time, but it will also give you the edge in picking the most suitable wine for you. Merlot is one of the most popular red grape varieties in the world. Additionally, Merlot has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce joint pain and stiffness. It is also excellent with mature cheeses and green pepper as well as with savory cold cuts such as cured hams. Shiraz/Syrah gives its best in a moderate to cool climate, eg France: Rhne Valley. Chocolate, cocoa, mocha, graphite are typical Merlot tertiary flavors. When stored properly and enjoyed in moderation, Merlot wine can be an enjoyable and healthy choice for any wine lover. Europe vintners only use the name syrah. Light bodied Merlots can go well with shellfish like prawns or scallops, especially if wrapped in a protein-rich food such as bacon or prosciutto. What are The Differences Between Orange Wine vs Rose? How does the cost of Shiraz compare to Merlot? Both Shiraz and Merlot wines are full-bodied red wines that can be enjoyed by wine enthusiasts across the world. The Merlot grape produces a medium-bodied red wine with low tannin, higher residual sugar . There is a direct relationship between the sugar left in the wine after the alcoholic fermentation has taken place, i.e. Merlot is planted all over the world given its versatility. The name of the Merlot grape variety derives from the desirability of its berries, which are particularly appreciated not only by our palates but also by the blackbirds of the same name in French (merle) which are a similar color as the grape variety. Their Three Palms Merlot won Wine Spectators wine of the year in 2017 and is one of the best examples of a flagship merlot out there. Shiraz is an intense, rich flavor, from spicy to fruit, while Merlot has a velvety and plummy taste. http://www.frenchscout.com/types-of-red-wines, Red wine grape which produces medium bodied flavorful wines. Here youll find a brief overview of Merlot vs Shiraz from a grape point of view. Shiraz is an excellent bottle to have with earthier red meat dishes, and it will complement the following meals: When drinking Shiraz, it is best to avoid seafood like sole, shrimp, or lobster, delicate, and too sour dishes. Our in-depth understanding of what makes each wine unique. Shiraz VS Merlot are both great wines that pair well with many different types of food. Syrah is commonly blended with Grenache and Mourvdre to create the red . October 20, 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are two of the most popular red wines in the U.S. Youll easily find good entry-level bottled from Chile, South Africa, Australia, Cali, France between $10-$20. This dark grape variety was brought to Australia in 1831, where it came to be known as Shiraz. Proceed with caution, and revel in the decadence. You can find both wines with red fruit, like raspberry, and herbaceous flavors, as well as wines with pronounced black fruit flavors, like black cherry and plum. Not a fair question. Diffen.com. Merlot has lesser or no sugar at all than a typically dry wine, but it does not mean that it is without calories. Its unique and balanced flavor makes it a favorite among many wine lovers. On the palate, Merlot wine is soft and juicy. Studies have also suggested that drinking Shiraz can benefit cardiovascular health by decreasing LDL cholesterol levels and increasing HDL cholesterol levels in the body. 4) Priced competitively against its peers, so youll save a few $100s and still get an outstanding wine. And if you find one of either you really like, let us know about it in the comments below. With Shiraz having lower alcohol and higher tannin content, you can expect it to leave a dry mouthfeel. It likes clay soils with a good skeletal component and requires medium-long pruning. Are you wondering about the alcohol content of different types of wines? One of the main characters hates merlot. Merlot vs. Shiraz: What's the Difference? Shiraz vs Merlot | All About Australian Wines & Wineries - Just Wines We'll cover what makes them different and help pick the perfect wine for you. Always keep in mind that the best wine is the one that can perfectly balance all its flavors. For the regions that overlap with shiraz, the grapes are often in a different part of the region. This Is the Real Difference Between Pinot Noir, Cabernet, and Other Red With both wines offering potential health benefits due to their high levels of polyphenols, you can confidently enjoy either wine knowing your body is getting something good too! However, it only grows well in a few California places because its vines require certain vineyard conditions. It is also not as sweet as a Merlot wine. Here youll find a brief overview of Merlot vs Shiraz from regions and wine styles points of view. Alcohol content or more precisely Alcohol By Volume, i.e. Merlot is a very versatile grape, often blended with other grapes since it softens higher-tannins grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, for example. Other wines such as Grenache and Mourvedre can provide a medium-bodied taste with some spice or smokiness thrown in. 1) Its bold and intense flavors of dark fruit, spice, and chocolate. Marsala wine may be the perfect addition. Discover All the Different Types of Red Wine - The Spruce Eats Savor the potential health benefits of these two renowned red wines! It has to do with how we taste the alcohol in the wine. The price of Shiraz wine can vary greatly depending on the region and producer. Which is Sweeter: Merlot or Shiraz? - Winevore What do we mean by this? Copyright 2023 Royal Glass - the Perfect Glass. 1. This wine truly represents the best of McLaren Vale winemaking. Shiraz has low-alcohol content, ranging from 10% to 14% only, whereas Merlot has high-alcohol content of 13.5% to 14.5%. It is dense, sensual and voluminous on the palate. 2) It was n# 1 Wine of the World in 2017 for Vintage (2014) and regularly scores 94+ points according to numerous critics, so its widely recognized as an outstanding wine. Good entry-level bottles are generally from Chile, California (Sonoma), France, and Italy. Merlot has a moderately sweet flavour reminiscent of fruit while Shiraz is more spicy and intense. So the more alcohol a wine has, usually the less sugar is left over. We are sorry that this post was not useful for you! Conversely, merlot is typically grown in regions with lighter climates. Many of these options go well with a variety of wines (like seafood, which goes well with many white wines as well). Syrah is pronounced sih-RAH. Is there a difference between vineyard-grown Shiraz and Merlot? Shiraz is a full-bodied wine with a robust flavour profile, while Merlot is more gentle being a medium-bodied wine. Its taste varies from that of blackberries and herbs to cocoa, black cherries, and plums. Outstanding bottles over $100+ are usually from Italy and France. Merlot's red wine has that distinct flavor related to Cabernets but is softer and ages more quickly. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It also involves the aroma, body, and texture, making the overall wine tasting experience subjective because wines have varying appeal for different consumers. Enjoying Shiraz can be an adventure of discovery as one finds new flavors with each sip. Difference between Merlot and Shiraz - Difference.Guru Residual sugar is the amount of sugar that is left over in the wine after the fermentation process completes. Web. Cabernet Sauvignon vs. Merlot Tasting Guide | Total Wine & More It was a discovery through 1999s DNA typing where people found out that Syrah was initially the offspring of the Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche grape varieties. The higher alcohol content is also usually accompanied by lower residual sugar than merlot as well. Required fields are marked *. Many have also observed high levels of tannins in both, creating an intense flavour. is famous for Merlot grapes that are slightly larger and with lesser harsh tannins. wines have a sweeter, more feminine palate than Shiraz. It is a popular varietal all over the world due to its depth, complexity and easily identifiable character. Wine lovers appreciate each for their distinct aroma and flavor . This easy-drinking variety of red wine is also associated with potential health benefits like improved heart health, reduced risk of cancer, and better cognitive function. Both varietals have their own unique characteristics that can make them stand out from each other when grown in a vineyard. Below are given some of the most notable differences between these vibrant and juicy grape types - Shiraz has a higher tannin level and is denser than Merlot. Shiraz/Syrah is a dry to off-dry red wine with a deep ruby to purple color. The fundamental differences between Merlot vs Shiraz are the quality of flavors. For higher-end Shiraz wines, you can expect to pay between $50 $200 per bottle. Here youll find a brief overview of Merlot vs Shiraz from a price comparison point of view. Limited Time Offer - 70% SALE On Selected Wines! The first recorded mention of Shiraz in Australia dates back to 1822, however it was not until the 1970s that it emerged onto the international stage. Merlot should be decanted for 30 minutes and served at 59 64 F (15 18 C) in a Bordeaux glass.[1]. Merlots can be paired with any type of food. If you like Petite Shiraz/Syrah, you will also enjoy the following wines: Aside from its names French origin which means little blackbird, Merlot is also a large and thin-skinned red grape from Frances Bordeaux region. Often times when a, Now that you know what the hallmark flavors and alcohol content are for both shiraz and merlot, lets go over what, Many of these options go well with a variety of wines (like seafood, which. If you find an especially strong merlot or a light shiraz, let us know about them in the comments below. 2) Its a versatile wine, so you can pair it with numerous dishes. Here youll find a brief overview of Merlot vs Shiraz in terms of sweetness level or residual sugar. Our recommendation for Best Value Shiraz/Syrah is Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz 2020 and for Best Overall is Shafer Napa Valley Relentless. < >. If you have been through the guide, by now you are a Merlot vs Shiraz expert! The first crucial thing we need to know is that Shiraz and Syrah are precisely the same! Districts: syrah excels in California, in Australia, and in France's Rhone Valley. As a blend, it can be found along with Merlot and Carmenere. The sweetness level of a wine is expressed in grams of sugar per liter, aka g/L, or as a percentage. 6 award winning wines for $44.95 plus free shipping, Duckhorn Three Palms Vineyard Merlot 2018. But what separates these two wines from each other? When most people think of red wine, the first two varietals that come to mind are shiraz and merlot. Here's a look at the key differences between Between Shiraz vs Merlot wine, as well as my thoughts on which one you should choose. Each has its own unique characteristics, making them ideal for pairing with a variety of dishes from rich red meats to creamy cheeses and desserts. is known to be the most relaxed of the red wines, with a smooth and easy flavor profile. 2) Aging: The wine is aged for 30 months in French oak barrels, which is longer than most other California wines in its category. Merlot vs. Shiraz: What's the Difference? - Royal Glass In this article, well discuss all the steps Are you looking for a unique, full-bodied taste to add to your next dinner party? The different climates produce different flavors in the wine. Finally, Merlots can be paired with any type of food. Merlot and Shiraz are two very popular wines on the market. Merlot is a dry wine with a medium to deep ruby color, typically velvety, as tannins are generally medium-low. If you click on the button below youll get 6 award winning wines for $44.95 plus free shipping on your first order. So if youre looking for a bolder taste with more kick, reach for the shiraz! Its used to produce light and fruity wines for immediate consumption, as well as more sophisticated wines that improve with bottle maturation and oak. Additionally, it often contains subtle hints of smoke, leather, earthy aromas and even chocolate. Our recommendation for Best Value Shiraz/Syrah is Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz 2020. Shiraz/Syrah is generally less velvety than Merlot as it has medium-high tannins. Cheese: Merlot is a versatile wine that pairs well with mild cheeses such as brie, gouda, and cheddar. Both wines can be paired with a variety of foods, from steak to seafood dishes. . This grape is comparatively effortless to produce, which makes it famous among wine yielders. Yes, Merlot wines can be aged for 5-10 years or more depending on the specific variety of Merlot and how it was produced. Shiraz, rich and smoky. While many associate Merlot with the big, bold red wines of Bordeaux in France, it can also be found in light and fruity styles from other regions. Merlot pairs easily with many foods compared to Cabernet Sauvignon thanks to its versatility. Most merlots have a delicate nose, with lighter fruit tones and stewed fruits. Author Note: Both the higher alcohol and lower residual sugar are hallmark components of shirazs big and bold flavor. 1) Its bold and yummy, if you like strong fruity flavour, thats your wine. We like to think of merlots as a red trainer wine. Wild Blueberries Vs. Regular Ones: What's the Difference? - Bon Apptit Shiraz vs Malbec: What's the Difference? | Check Now!! - I Love Wine Main Differences Between Shiraz And Merlot. It typically has higher levels of tannins and alcohol than Merlot, which is typically softer and more mellow. They also tend to be highly aromatic with a pleasant bouquet. Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz and Sugarbird Sweet Shiraz are . Light-bodied Merlots can go well with shellfish such as shrimp or scallops, as well as bacon or ham. What's the difference between Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon? Some Shiraz will smell like a normal full-bodied red wine (cooked fruits, cherries, and grape), while others will have a very distinct menthol smell. It typically has rich notes of dark fruits such as plums and blackberries, complemented by touches of spice and pepper. It is produced to create medium to full-bodied, dark red wines aged on oak which contain medium plus to high levels of tannins, an. This nose will translate over to the palette as an immediate mint and. Chocolate and licorice are other typical notes. This makes merlot a bit more versatile than Shiraz. Ultimately, it all boils down to what YOU like best! An off dry wine contains between 15-30 g/l. So the more alcohol a wine has, usually the less sugar is left over. 3) Consistency: Shafer Relentless consistently receives high ratings whichis a testament to the winemakers attention to detail and commitment to producing a high-quality wine every year. The other major difference is their body: Merlot tends to have a softer, rounder texture while Shiraz has a fuller-bodied structure. Depending on the styles Merlots ABV ranges between 13% to 14.5%, whereas Shirazs ABV ranges between 13% to 15.5%. However, there are several key differences between the two. The following sections of this article will walk you through the grape variations, Shiraz and Merlot, and how each will make an extraordinary appeal to your palates. For example, Merlot is a grape that is soft and fleshy and its early ripening makes it popular for blending with later ripening grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, while Shiraz is a grape variety mainly used for blending with other varieties when it is very ripe. Flavor Merlot is a milder, flavorful, medium bodied wine which showcases the fruit and is a better wine for beginner tasters. They arent cheap, however! All of these contribute to excellent grape production. It will be a smart idea for wine-tasting newbies to have varying options and be more adventurous with their choices. Australian Shiraz is particularly popular and tends to be more expensive due to its reputation for quality and flavor profile. Its high concentration of polyphenols helps prevent free radical damage and may lower the risk of developing certain types of cancers. Additionally, Shiraz may help improve digestion due to its high tannin content, which promotes enzyme production in the stomach. Transitioning into the next topic: lets explore how the body and texture of shiraz vs merlot can help you decide which one is right for you. The Difference Between Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot typically falls between 12-14% ABV. It is full-bodied and has a milder acidity than some grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon. The fruity flavors in Merlot complement the creaminess of these cheeses. Imagine two glasses of red wine sitting in front of you. You now know that shiraz has a bigger body, stronger tannins, and bolder fruit flavors compared to merlots softer tannins, lighter body, and more subtle fruit flavors. They are also one of the largest producers of Shiraz, so you should be able to find them at your local wine purveyor. What is funny when comparing merlot to shiraz is that with many other wines, you would consider merlot to be the stronger character in the room. This makes sense as well because the process of fermentation is turning residual sugar into alcohol. Great quality bottles can be found for up to $100 usually from California, France, and Italy. Shiraz, on the other hand, is generally paired with red meats, steaks, game meats and thick stews. Lets go over which regions each are grown in. Merlot vs Shiraz: What are the Main Differences? - Vino Del Vida Shiraz vs Cabernet Sauvignon: The Differences Explained This is also why there are very few regions in the world that can make truly great wine. As always make sure to serve them at the right temperature to enjoy them at their best. Our recommendation is therefore based on what youd fancy the most at a particular given moment or event. Both wines have tannin and acidity levels that make them easy to pair with food. What's The Difference Between Shiraz And Syrah? The main differences between Shiraz and Merlot are: Shiraz has an intense flavor, ranging from fruity to spicy, whereas Merlot has this soft, plummy taste. It has a good structure, balanced acidity and defined tannins, but at the same time it is often velvety, made even softer with aging. Merlot is often enjoyed as a sipping wine or paired with a variety of meals, including red meats, roasted vegetables and creamy pasta dishes. Additionally, due to the similarities between these two wines, they can often be used interchangeably in recipes and pairings. has warm-climate regions like Napa Valley that can produce round and smooth grapes. Copyright 2023 Funky Monkey Wine. Merlot and Shiraz are both dark grapes that are used to produce two kinds of red wine named after them. Shiraz Vs. Merlot Wine. Lets start with shiraz. Merlot is a grape that is soft and fleshy, early ripening makes it popular for blending with later ripening cabernet sauvignon grape. 3) It cost $17 () yes, its unbelievable for the quality you get. Diffen LLC, n.d. Merlot wines, because of their moderate levels of alcohol and tannin, are generally considered to be healthy if consumed in moderation. Pinot Noir was depicted as the choice for wine connoisseurs, while Merlot was cast as boring and unsophisticated . Here, since the 13th century, some of the most elegant Syrah wines have been produced, thanks to the continental climate and the excellent temperature range of these famous vineyards. What is the difference between Shiraz and Merlot? In terms of taste, prized wild berries are much sweeter, less watery, and more concentrated in flavor than the standard supermarket variety. Shiraz tends to be more full-bodied with higher tannins and a powerful flavor. After all, some of the most fun you can have while drinking wine is to explore how the flavor changes with different foods! When picking out which red wine you want to drink, you may be considering drinking either a shiraz or a merlot. Its origin started around the 18th century, where it once was and still is the principal red grape variety. Because it has a more gentle flavor profile, we recommend enjoying it with lighter foods that also have more nuanced flavors. Syrah is a very long-lived wine that lends itself very well to ageing in wood, with which it acquires notes of bitter cocoa, tobacco, coffee, caramelised sugar and tar. The Difference Between Red Wines and How to Choose the Right One What is the difference between Sauvignon Blanc vs Chenin Blanc Wine? Pinot Noir is elegant with bright red fruit, acidity, and tantalizing aromas. Merlot (say mer-lo), used in the claret blend as a softening influence. Syrah vs. Shiraz - What is the Difference? - WineLoverMagazine The grape variety coming from France is what most people refer to as the old-world Syrah. When it comes to two popular red wine varietals, its hard to choose between them but lets take a look at what each has to offer. Merlot also contains polyphenols, which act as antioxidants in the body, helping to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of certain diseases. They arent cheap, however! Australias warm climate and soil composition provide ideal conditions to create robust and full-bodied reds such as Shiraz. It also has a tinge of vanilla and cedar when aged in oak. Most merlots have a delicate nose, with lighter fruit tones and stewed fruits. Have you ever wondered how this unique Italian fortified wine is made? What are our favorite shiraz and merlots? Both of these varietals have distinct aromas and flavors that tantalize the senses, making it hard to choose between them! We mean that within several miles there can be very different conditions for growing grapes. 2) Its a smooth and velvety texture that adds to its overall elegance and drinkability and makes it approachable and easy to drink. Since shiraz needs a lot of sugar in its grapes to produce its high alcohol content and bold flavors, it is typically grown in warmer climates. Here youll find a brief overview of Merlot vs Shiraz from a food pairings point of view. It is certain that Syrah was already successfully cultivated in France in the Middle Ages, more precisely in the Rhone Valley. It has a fruity, delicate, feminine flavor with a velvety feel on the mouth. Merlot wine is a full-bodied, dark red wine made from the Merlot grape variety. Examples include Merlot, Shiraz, Tempranillo, and Nebbiolo. Merlot is known for its antioxidant properties. Its definitely not a wine for the faint of heart! It depends on the climates in which the grapes were grown and the style of wine the winemaker is trying to produce. It has more tannins and is dense, plentiful and intense. Merlot is a lighter wine with smooth, velvety textures and subtle fruity aromas. Syrah and Shiraz are two names for the same grape. These two wines are shiraz and merlot: both bold, full-bodied reds but with distinct differences in flavour, aroma and body. The simple answer is that Shiraz tends to be bolder, with less residual sugar and higher alcohol content. Shiraz has a bold, spicy flavor with heavy tannins and acidic notes, while Merlot is smooth and fruity with a subtle hint of oakiness. The origin of Syrah is still a mystery today. When it comes to food pairings, Shiraz and Merlot are two different wines that each bring their own unique flavor. Which is better, Shiraz vs merlot? They are both some of our favorite wines, with great examples of top-notch red wines in both varietals. Generally speaking, shiraz tends to be slightly more expensive than merlot due to the fact that it is a full-bodied red wine with higher tannins which require a longer aging process. Depending on where it grows, Syrah can have various aromas and flavors that are spicy, smoky, fruity, floral, and meaty. Shiraz tends to be more full-bodied with higher tannins and a powerful flavor. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. However, some Merlots are designed to be aged, with a tannic structure that will become smoother and more complex over time. The body and texture of each varietal can be further explored by comparing them side-by-side. In this article, well take a closer look at the differences between shiraz and merlot so that you can pick the perfect one for your next gathering. It was originally from Bordeaux. This nose will translate over to the palette as an immediate mint and menthol hit when you first taste the wine. wine producers combine the best of the New World and the Old. Both wines have a similar tannin structure with medium to high levels of acidity, making them both well-structured and robust. Syrah is from France, and Shiraz is from Australia. The three things that make this wine the best value wine are: 1) Its balanced, soft, and smooth, which means that you both get complexity and richness in flavors and aromas. If youre looking for a wine thats similar to Shiraz and Merlot, there are plenty of other varietals to consider! Let's have a look at . It has become famous in the northern area of the Rhone Valley, France. Its a fantastic bottle of Merlot at an extremely reasonable price. The Merlot grape is also a sibling of the Cabernet Franc grape. No, all Merlots aren't sweeter than all Shiraz wines. What is the difference between Shiraz and Merlot? The top red wine varietals that you are likely to encounter are Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Shiraz, Sangiovese, Malbec, and Grenache. As with all types of alcohol, however, it is important to remember to drink in moderation and not exceed recommended guidelines. Both pairs well with stews, grilled meats, cheese boards, and dark chocolate desserts. The most basic difference between Syrah and Shiraz is where they're from. Merlot, on the other hand, isnt nearly as bold as shiraz. Descriptions Merlot is a type of wine made from Merlot grapes, which are large, dark blue grapes with a thin skin. It made its first appearance in Gironde, a splendid land in south-western France, but it was not long before it spread to all the wine-growing regions of the world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced connoisseur, I want to help you make the most of your wine-drinking experiences. This is actually kind of a trick question because the answer is not always. Your email address will not be published. It typically has rich notes of dark fruits such as plums and blackberries, complemented by touches of spice and pepper. Residual Sugar or RS, and ABV. Youre not alone! When comparing shiraz vs merlot, its hard for us to pick a favorite. So dont always rely on what your nose and taste buds are telling you. Penfolds is the quintessential shiraz that has all the shiraz flavor hallmarks. In wine-food pairing, you should keep in mind that it's all about domination and intensity. Its full-bodied nature and well-integrated tannins makes it a standout among other Shiraz wines.
