As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Merlot is considered a dry wine. When we talk about the sweetness or dryness of a wine, we are referring to the residual sugar content in the wine. In the case of Merlot, it is typically fermented until most, if not all, of the sugar has been converted into alcohol. This fermentation process creates a dry wine with minimal residual sugar.
However, it's important to note that the perception of sweetness in wine can be influenced by factors other than residual sugar. One such factor is the level of tannins in the wine. Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes, as well as in oak barrels used during aging. They create a drying sensation in the mouth, which can sometimes be mistaken for sweetness.
In the case of Merlot, while it is considered a dry wine, it tends to have a fruitier flavor profile compared to other dry red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot often exhibits flavors of blackberries, cherries, plums, and sometimes even notes of raspberries. These fruity characteristics can give the impression of sweetness, but it's important to remember that they are not the result of residual sugar.
To enhance the complexity of Merlot, winemakers may use oak aging, which can contribute additional flavors such as vanilla, clove, and mocha. These earthy overtones add depth to the wine's overall flavor profile, but again, they are not indicative of sweetness.
I recall a personal experience where I had the opportunity to taste a range of Merlot wines from different regions. Despite the variation in flavor profiles, all the wines shared a common dryness, with varying levels of fruitiness and earthy undertones. This reinforces the notion that Merlot is generally considered a dry wine.
Merlot is a dry wine due to its low residual sugar content. However, its fruity flavor profile can sometimes create the perception of sweetness. The presence of tannins and the use of oak aging contribute to the complexity of the wine, adding earthy overtones like vanilla, clove, and mocha. So, while Merlot may be fruitier than Cabernet Sauvignon, it is important to remember that it is still a dry wine.