Red wine is a staple in most homes. You can enjoy it with dinner, unwind with friends, or even pair it with dessert. But did you know that red wine has different styles and tastes depending on the type of grape and how it was fermented? In this blog post, we explore the differences between two popular types of red wine: cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Which one should you stock in your cellar? Keep reading to find out!
What’s the Difference Between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot?
If you love red wine and want to dive deeper into different types, cabernet sauvignon and merlot are two of the most common grape varieties used to make red wine. While similar, these two have a few distinct differences in taste, color, and production. Cabernet sauvignon is a dark grape that produces full-bodied red wines that are rich in flavor. It is grown in warm climates such as California, Australia, and Argentina. On the other hand, merlot is a lighter-colored grape that produces lighter, softer red wines. It is grown in cooler climates, such as Bordeaux and the Loire Valley. Cabernet Sauvignon vines produce a larger grape, which is one reason why it is more popular for red wine production than merlot. The larger grape means a higher sugar content and a more intense flavor. It also means that cabernet sauvignon vines take longer to mature, which explains why these wines tend to cost more than merlots. Merlots are often blended with other grape varieties such as cabernet sauvignon to add color, body, and flavor.
Merlot vs. Cabernet Sauvignon: Tasting Notes
Let’s start tasting! If you want to determine which one is best for you, try tasting these two side by side. Color: Cabernet sauvignon is a richer, darker red, while merlot is lighter in color. Body: Cabernet sauvignon wines are more full-bodied than merlot, which is lighter and softer. Ageability: Cabernet sauvignon generally ages better than merlot since it has a higher tannin content. Aromatic: Cabernet sauvignon has a more aromatic and complex flavor than merlot. Acidity: For those who like their red wine on the tart side, merlot is more acidic than cabernet sauvignon.
Merlot Nutrition Facts
Let’s move on to the health benefits of merlot. A standard 5 oz. glass of merlot contains 124 calories and 3.3g of fat. It also provides a decent amount of minerals such as magnesium, iron, and potassium. Unlike most other wines, merlot has a high sugar content, which is why it tastes so good. The sugar content also makes it high in calories, so keep that in mind when enjoying a glass.
Cabernet Sauvignon Nutrition Facts
Now let’s talk about the health benefits of cabernet sauvignon. A standard 5 oz. glass of cabernet sauvignon contains 109 calories and 1.5g of fat. Like merlot, it also contains minerals such as magnesium, iron, and potassium. The biggest difference between the nutritional facts for merlot and cabernet sauvignon is the amount of alcohol. Cabernet sauvignon has a higher alcohol content, which can make it more intoxicating than merlot.
Which One Tastes Better?
Let’s be honest, the best way to know which one you like better is to try each one! For those who are still in the middle, we’ll try and help you decide. Price: Cabernet sauvignon wines are typically more expensive than merlot wines. Aging: Since cabernet sauvignon has a higher tannin content, it generally ages better than merlot. Acidity: For those who like their wine on the more tart side, merlot is more acidic.
Should You Buy Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot?
The best way to determine which one is right for you is to try both. You might also want to consider your preferences and lifestyle when making a choice. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each. If you love full-bodied wine, cabernet sauvignon might be the one for you. A cabernet sauvignon is generally a darker, heavier style of red wine that pairs well with a variety of meals. It is often aged longer, which adds to its robust flavor and tannin content. A merlot is generally lighter, softer, and more tart than a cabernet sauvignon, which makes it a great choice for everyday drinking.
Summary
If you love red wine, you’ve probably noticed the difference between a merlot and a cabernet sauvignon. While similar, these two have a few distinct differences in taste, color, and production. Cabernet sauvignon is a dark grape that produces full-bodied red wines that are rich in flavor. It is grown in warm climates such as California, Australia, and Argentina. On the other hand, merlot is a lighter-colored grape that produces lighter, softer red wines. It is grown in cooler climates, such as Bordeaux and the Loire Valley. Cabernet sauvignon vines produce a larger grape, which is one reason why it is more popular for red wine production than merlot. The larger grape means a higher sugar content and a more intense flavor. It also means that cabernet sauvignon vines take longer to mature, which explains why these wines tend to cost more than merlots. Merlots are often blended with other grape varieties such as cabernet sauvignon to add color, body, and flavor. Cabernet sauvignon wines are generally more expensive than merlot wines and are typically rich in flavor. Merlot is generally lighter, softer, and more tart than cabernet sauvignon.
