Merlot

At Paloma, Merlot is the soul of our story. It is the grape that founders Jim & Barbara fell in love with on their journey to Spring Mountain.  Picture this: it’s the late 1970s, and Barbara and Jim are visiting the Duckhorn vineyard, tasting their famed Three Palms Merlot. They lean into a sip and feel stirred—not just by the wine’s richness, but by its quiet elegance. That moment sparked something. They looked at each other and thought, “This is the wine we want to make. These are grapes we have to grow.” Before they even found the site, they had their hearts set on Merlot. By the time they found the raw land at the top of Spring Mountain, there was no changing their minds. Back then, planting Merlot at that elevation was almost unheard of—too cool, too risky. But they trusted their instincts and took the leap.

Merlot has captivated wine enthusiasts for over two centuries with its smooth texture, rich flavors, and remarkable versatility. As one of the most widely planted grape varietals in the world, Merlot holds a prominent place on dinner tables and in wine cellars from Bordeaux to Napa Valley. But what makes Merlot so special? The answer lies in the grape’s adaptability, the care that goes into its cultivation, and the sense of place reflected in every bottle.

When it comes to wine, the French Bordeaux varietal family has set the stage for some truly legendary flavors, and Merlot shines as one of its most notable members. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is Merlot a dry wine?” or tried to pinpoint what exactly the “ Merlot taste ” is, let’s explore how this grape offers layers of approachable elegance, all while balancing the more intense qualities of other Bordeaux varietals.

If you’ve ever wandered down the wine aisle looking for a bottle that strikes a balance between smoothness, bold flavor, and versatility, chances are you’ve come across Merlot. But what is a Merlot ? Known for its approachable taste, Merlot has long been a favorite among wine drinkers, whether you’re just starting out or have a well-curated collection at home. But what sets an award-winning Merlot apart from the rest? Let’s dive into the magic of this grape varietal and why choosing the right Merlot—especially from a special place like Napa Valley’s Spring Mountain—can elevate your wine experience.

When it comes to red wines, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are two of the most beloved varieties worldwide. Both originating from Bordeaux, these wines offer distinct characteristics, each attracting a loyal fan base. Understanding the differences between these two varieties can enhance your tasting experiences. Let's break down their unique traits.

Not sure if you like Merlot? Read the breakdown of taste and texture and decide if it's right for you.

Here at Paloma Vineyard, we have a soft spot for the gentle coo of doves, or palomas in Spanish. These graceful birds frequently visit our sun-drenched estate, and are the namesake of our flagship Merlot. But the connection goes deeper than a name. Just like the dove, our Merlot meaning embodies elegance and approachability.

In the tasting room, people occasionally refer to red wine as sweet. Winemakers often find this statement worthy of correction; almost all reds are made to be dry. So what does the customer mean when they say is merlot sweet ? Although taste is subjective, let's dive into this flavor inquiry.

Merlot has been loved for 200 years for its smooth taste. Learn what makes a smooth Merlot and why acidity plays a key role. Taste it yourself.