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Merlot vs Syrah & Shiraz

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Similarities of Merlot & Syrah/Shiraz

Merlot and Syrah/Shiraz are both French grapes that have become immensely popular outside of their home country.

Syrah and Shiraz essentially refers to two different styles of wine, made from the same grape. Syrah is lighter and more acidic, made from grapes grown in cooler climates. Shiraz is slightly fuller and fruitier and is made from grapes grown in hot climates, such as Barossa Valley in Australia. 

Similarly, Merlot can be made in a more full-bodied style. This is achieved by using the International Method, where grapes are harvested late so they can reach peak ripeness. 

Generally speaking, both of these varietals are on the more approachable end of the scale, and are more soft and easy to drink than an angular Cabernet Sauvignon, for example. 

In this article, we will be comparing the most stereotypical characteristics of each varietal. Be wary that there is lots of wriggle room for both Merlot and Syrah and Shiraz, depending on where they are grown.

Differences of Merlot Versus Syrah/Shiraz

Merlot is grown in the Bordeaux region of France, while Syrah originates from the opposite side of the country, in the Rhone Valley. Merlot is grown more extensively across the world than Syrah and Shiraz, which is largely focused in France, Australia and the United States. 

When it comes to blending, Merlot ripens early, so it is typically blended with fuller, later ripening grapes. Syrah and Shiraz ripen quite late, so it is primarily used in a blend when it is already very ripe. 

Merlot grapes are slightly thinner skinned than Syrah and Shiraz, with fewer tannins, but both varietals tend to grow in large, loose bunches on the vine. 

How To Distinguish Between Merlot & Syrah/Shiraz

Typically, Syrah/Shiraz will feel much bolder and richer than Merlot in the mouth. Syrah has more tannins and can be described as intense, dense and generous. 

Merlot is soft and slightly more approachable. It’s a perfect choice for beginner wine tasters. 

Though the two varietals flavor profiles can be quite similar, Merlot’s should be more accessible. It is soft and flavorful, and you should get hints of plum, cherry, chocolate and soft spices. On the other hand, Syrah and Shiraz should have distinctive blackberry notes, with more meaty and earthy flavors. 

It may also be possible to distinguish between the two varietals by color alone. Syrah and Shiraz is famously inky and should be a darker red than Merlot. 

Merlot vs Syrah/Shiraz Comparison Chart

Characteristic Merlot Syrah/Shiraz
Sweetness Dry Dry
Acidity Medium Medium
Tannins Low-Medium Medium-High
Body Medium-Full Full
Tasting Notes Red and black fruits – plums, cherries and raspberries. Licorice, cloves, chocolate and coffee. Black fruits – blackberries, plums, and blueberries. Meaty flavors, black olive, smoke and spice.
Popularity 40,500 Monthly Searches 39,200 Monthly Searches
Calories Per Glass 120 cal 130 cal
ABV % 13 – 14.5% 13 – 15.5%

Pairing Food With Merlot & Syrah/Shiraz

Merlot is very food friendly and can be paired with a variety of dishes, such as risottos, cheeses, and cured or grilled meats. The intense fruitiness of Syrah pairs well with salty food, such as blue cheeses and barbecued meats.

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