Merlot Wine Grape
Considered one of the most popular varieties in the world, Merlot Wine Grape is the most planted variety in the famed Bordeaux region of France. While it is generally used in blends with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot can also produce a very smooth tasting wine on its own, often giving notes of chocolate and vanilla. A rather adaptable variety, Merlot can be grown in cooler climates but thrives in warmer, milder climates where the result is an incredibly smooth and easy to drink wine.
Latin Name: Vitis vinifera
Site and Soil: Grapes like full to 1/2 day sun and well-drained soil. Grapes are drought resistant once they are established.
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile.
Hardiness: Hardy to minus 10° F.
Bearing Age: 2-3 years after planting.
Size at Maturity: 10-12 ft. in width on fence, trellis, or other support.
Bloom Time: May
Ripening Time: Late September
Yield: 10-15 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Repel birds with flash tape or cover plants with bird netting.
USDA Zone: 7