The wonderful Merlot’s that are produced in the Bordeaux region of France have provided generations of red wine lovers with great joy. In fact one of the most well respected wines in the world – Petrus hails from Bordeaux – and with Petrus as a representative of this type of red perhaps people should start to give Merlot the respect that it deserves.

Part of the baggage that Merlot has carried in the past was that it was relegated to a role as a component of blends – not able to stand on its own two metaphorical feet due to the fact that it was viewed as having very little complexity and lackluster taste highlights dominated by soft fruit tones. Not exactly a vote of confidence when it comes to its ability to go toe to toe with bruisers like Cabernet Sauvignon.

However, times have changed. Today winemakers have learned to tease the complexity from Merlot – and some of the results are nothing short of spectacular.

Here are some examples of Merlot wine that are worthy of a second (or third and fourth) sip.

1. Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot.

Hailing from the Napa Valley this wine provides an intriguing and complex flavor profile with notes of various fruits and a soft tannin feel. It’s a best seller for a reason – although it is a bit pricey at just over $50 a bottle it flies of the shelf.

2. Blackstone Merlot – Winemakers Select.

Rich dark berries, a hint of vanilla and depth make this an honest example of the Merlot wine makers craft. It’s an honest Merlot that will deliver exactly what is expected. At a price of around $8 a bottle it is well worth a try. Perfect for pairing with protein such as beef, veal or lamb. This is a ‘barbecue wine‘ – to be enjoyed with freinds and family – as long as you don’t take it tremendously seriously and simply enjoy it for the rich taste it’ll deliver a great drinking experience.

3. Stag’s Leap.

Another product of Napa valley this wine has a scent profile that will knock your socks off. With bold statements of dark fruit and a hint of spice this is a complex Merlot that can be enjoyed by all of the senses, taste, smell and sight. The mouthfeel is not too bad either. At around $24 a bottle great value.

4. Emmolo Merlot.

Yet another offering from California’s Napa Valley this is a Merlot that pulls absolutely no punches. Great fruit and tannin depth and a sprightly ABV of 15% this is a Merlot that will reward those who are unafraid of a big taste. Berries and vanilla are there in abundance. It’s hardly cheap at $55 but you will get what you pay for – a prime example of why Merlot is gaining a sort of semi cult following.

If you want to explore a wine that is rapidly growing in popularity and find out just why Merlot has seized the imagination of red wine loving consumers then go out and pick up a bottle or two – you may just become a convert.