White Merlot and traditional Merlot are two different styles of wine, with variations in color, tannins, and flavor profile. The main difference between the two lies in the amount of time the grape juice spends in contact with the skin during the winemaking process.
Traditional Merlot is made by fermenting the grape juice along with the skins, seeds, and stems for a period of 14-21 days. This extended maceration allows for the extraction of color, tannins, and other compounds from the grape skins, resulting in a red wine with a deep, ruby color. The tannins contribute to the structure and mouthfeel of the wine, giving it a firm and sometimes slightly astringent character.
In contrast, White Merlot is made by allowing the grape juice to have a brief contact with the skins, typically only a few hours. This short maceration period imparts minimal color and tannins to the juice, resulting in a wine with a pale pink or blush color. The lack of tannins in White Merlot makes it lighter in body and smoother on the palate compared to traditional Merlot.
The difference in color between the two wines is quite apparent. While traditional Merlot is a deep red wine, White Merlot is much lighter in color with shades of pink. This difference in color can also influence the perceived flavors of the wines. Some may associate the deeper color of traditional Merlot with richer and bolder flavors, while the lighter color of White Merlot may be perceived as more delicate and fruity.
In terms of flavor profile, traditional Merlot tends to exhibit notes of dark fruits such as blackberry and plum, along with hints of spice, chocolate, and sometimes earthy undertones. The tannins in traditional Merlot can provide structure and a slightly drying sensation on the palate. On the other hand, White Merlot is often characterized by its bright and refreshing flavors of red berries, such as strawberry and raspberry, with floral and citrus notes. The lack of tannins in White Merlot allows for a smoother and more approachable wine, making it a popular choice for those who prefer lighter and fruit-forward styles.
It's worth noting that the winemaking techniques used for both traditional Merlot and White Merlot can vary among producers. Some winemakers may opt for longer or shorter maceration periods, or even use different grape varieties to create their own unique interpretation of these styles. As a result, there can be some variation in the characteristics of these wines.
The main difference between White Merlot and traditional Merlot lies in the amount of time the grape juice spends in contact with the skins during the winemaking process. This difference in maceration time influences the color, tannin levels, and flavor profile of the wines. Traditional Merlot is a red wine with deeper color, higher tannins, and flavors of dark fruits, while White Merlot is a lighter, pink wine with minimal tannins and bright, fruity flavors.