A Paradoxical Star: Reininger 2007 Merlot
There’s nothing contradictory about why wine drinkers across the globe love Merlot. Good quality Merlot, such as the Reininger 2007 Merlot, is lush and fruity, easy to drink and savor. Despite its renown and popularity today, Merlot was not a well-known in the United States until the 1970′s. As discussed previously (link to Bordeaux blog), Merlot was traditionally produced in Bordeaux as a blending wine, a key component, though by no means the only star of French “Bordeaux”. In the 1970′s, the Californian Louis M. Martini Winery initiated the trend to bottle and market Merlot as a single varietal. The wine was well received by those looking for a drinkable, approachable red.
Although Merlot was well-liked, it was in the early 1990′s that the varietal launched to the superstar status it maintains today. The catalyst to this boom in popularity was the 60 Minutes television report of the “French Paradox”. Scientist’s had discovered that despite the high-fat diets often consumed in France, they had over-all lower levels of heart disease. The explanation was partially attributed to the population’s frequent consumption of red wine. The presence of resveratrol and poplyphenols in red wine resulted in a reduction of fat levels. Not surprisingly, this prescription was very well received by Americans, who rushed in droves to apply the wisdom of the French. Due to it’s easy, smooth drinkability, Merlot was often the red wine of choice.
As demand quickly rose, increasing numbers of Merlot grapes were planted in California to boost supply. Subsequent over-planting and increased production of Merlot led to a decrease of California quality levels, and many flat and uninspiring Merlots made their way into the marketplace. Furthermore, although Merlot ripens best in cooler climates, the vast majority is raised in California’s warm Central Valley. Merlot with more character is produced in California’s North Coast wine district, bit it is often very expensive and limited in supply.
Walla Walla and Columbia Valley growers joined the craze of the 1980′s, and for good reason: Washington’s cooler climate is ideally suited to growing Merlot. Today it is arguably Washington’s most important red grape. The quality and consistency of Washington Merlot has raised the bar, and consumers are becoming more discerning. The Reininger 2007 Merlot is one such wine that emphasizes traditional quality, with zingy acidity and concentrated flavors. The Walla Walla Valley is an amazing place to grow Merlot, probably the best outside of Bordeaux (we’ll tell you more about that soon), and lends itself to the production of sumptuous Pomerol-esque Merlots.
So be discerning in your Merlot selection. Wine stores and grocery stores are filled with variety, and it can be hard to avoid the more lackluster Merlots. We might be biased, but the Reininger 2007 Walla Walla Valley Merlot is a true star, full of fantastic, vibrant flavors and aromas.
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