Cabernet and Merlot are both well-known grape varieties used in the production of red wine. They are the most widely distributed varieties and share the same black color. Cabernet is often the first grape variety that comes to mind when discussing red wine. It has many varieties, including the famous Cabernet Sauvignon, which is a crossbreed between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. This grape can thrive in different types of climates. On the other hand, Merlot is also widely used in red wine production and is a popular ingredient in many wines. It is believed to have gotten its name from the French word for blackbird due to its color. Most wines produced from Merlot are medium-bodied, and as of 2004, it was ranked as the third most widely grown grape variety.
Key Takeaways
- Cabernet is ideally planted on gravel while Merlot should be grown on clay.
- As of 2004, Cabernet was ranked second as the most widely grown variety, while Merlot ranked third.
- Wines made from Cabernet have higher tannins compared to those made from Merlot, and Cabernet has a stronger affinity for oak during fermentation and barrel aging.
