The Meritage
Grape
A term used to describe Bordeaux-style red and white blended wines made outside of Bordeaux, particularly in the United States. Red Meritage blends are based on Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, while white Meritage blends use Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle. These wines aim to reflect the quality and complexity of Bordeaux blends.
Meritage
Grape History
Meritage is a term used to describe Bordeaux-style wines that are produced outside of the Bordeaux region in France. The term "Meritage" is a combination of the words "merit" and "heritage," emphasizing the quality and tradition of blending classic Bordeaux grape varieties. The Meritage concept was created in the United States in the 1980s as a way to promote and distinguish high-quality blended wines.
Meritage wines are typically made from a blend of traditional Bordeaux grape varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and sometimes Carmenere. These wines are known for their complexity, balance, and aging potential.
While Meritage wines can be produced anywhere in the world, the Meritage Alliance, an organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the Meritage name, has specific criteria for wines to be labeled as Meritage in the United States. These criteria include being a blend of at least two Bordeaux grape varieties and meeting certain quality standards.
Meritage wines are primarily produced in regions known for their Bordeaux-style blends, such as California, Washington State, and Virginia in the United States, as well as in regions like Canada, Australia, and South Africa.
One interesting fact about Meritage wines is that they are often compared to their Bordeaux counterparts, as winemakers strive to create wines that embody the same elegance and character. The use of the Meritage label allows winemakers outside of Bordeaux to pay homage to the classic blends of the region while showcasing their own unique terroir and winemaking style.
In terms of the future of the Meritage grape variety, it is expected to continue to grow in popularity as consumers seek out high-quality, artisanal wines with a sense of tradition and history. As winemakers experiment with different grape blends and winemaking techniques, the diversity and quality of Meritage wines are likely to increase, making them a fixture in the global wine market.
Overall, Meritage wines offer a unique and exciting glimpse into the world of Bordeaux-style blends produced outside of France, showcasing the skill and creativity of winemakers around the world. With a rich history and promising future, Meritage wines are sure to remain a beloved choice for wine enthusiasts seeking exceptional quality and character in their glass.