Meritage wine is a term coined in the United States to describe a blend of Bordeaux-style red and white wines. The term was created in 1988 by a group of American winemakers who wanted to create a name for their Bordeaux-style blends that did not infringe on the Bordeaux name. Meritage is a combination of the words “merit” and “heritage,” emphasizing the quality and history behind these blends.
A meritage wine is a type of blended wine that is made in the same tradition as Bordeaux-style wines. The term “meritage” is a combination of the words “merit” and “heritage” and was created by a group of American winemakers who wanted to distinguish their high-quality blended wines from other generic blends. Meritage wines are made using specific grape varieties and must meet certain criteria to be labeled as such. In this introduction, we will explore the characteristics of meritage wines and the rules that govern their production.
The History of Meritage Wines
The Meritage Association was established in 1988 by a group of American winemakers who wanted to create a name for their Bordeaux-style blends. The association set up a set of criteria for winemakers to follow to use the Meritage name on their wine labels. To use the term Meritage, the wine must be a blend of at least two of the traditional Bordeaux grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon. The wine must also be produced in the United States, and the winery must be a member of the Meritage Association.
The Characteristics of Meritage Wines
Meritage wines are rich, complex, and full-bodied. They are typically made from a blend of Bordeaux grape varieties, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot being the most common. Meritage wines are known for their smooth tannins, balanced acidity, and flavors of dark fruit, blackberry, cassis, and chocolate. They are often aged in oak barrels, which adds flavors of vanilla, spice, and toast to the wine.
Red Meritage Wines
Red Meritage wines are usually a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. These wines are full-bodied and have a deep red color. They are known for their complex flavors, which include black cherry, blackberry, and plum. The tannins in red Meritage wines are firm but smooth, and the wines have a long, lingering finish.
White Meritage Wines
White Meritage wines are usually a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. These wines are medium-bodied and have a pale gold color. They are known for their aromas of citrus, melon, and pear, and their flavors of lemon, grapefruit, and honey. White Meritage wines are often aged in oak barrels, which gives them a rich, creamy texture.
Food Pairings for Meritage Wines
Meritage wines are versatile and pair well with a variety of foods. Red Meritage wines are perfect for pairing with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and hearty stews. The tannins in the wine cut through the richness of these foods, while the fruit flavors complement the flavors of the dishes. White Meritage wines are perfect for pairing with seafood, poultry, and creamy cheeses. The acidity in the wine cuts through the richness of these foods and enhances their flavors.
One key takeaway from this text is that Meritage wine is a Bordeaux-style blend of red and white wines created by American winemakers in 1988. The term “Meritage” is a combination of “merit” and “heritage,” emphasizing the quality and history behind these blends. To use the term Meritage, the wine must follow criteria set by the Meritage Association, including being a blend of at least two traditional Bordeaux grape varieties and produced in the United States. Meritage wines are known for their rich, complex, and full-bodied characteristics, with red blends typically consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, and white blends typically consisting of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. They pair well with a variety of foods, and can be aged for several years when stored properly.
Pairing Red Meritage Wines
- Grilled steak
- Roasted lamb
- Beef stew
- Mushroom risotto
- Aged cheddar cheese
Pairing White Meritage Wines
- Grilled shrimp
- Roast chicken
- Lobster bisque
- Creamy pasta dishes
- Brie cheese
Buying and Storing Meritage Wines
When buying Meritage wines, it is important to look for wines that are labeled “Meritage” and are produced by a member of the Meritage Association. This ensures that the wine meets the association’s standards for quality and consistency.
When storing Meritage wines, it is important to keep them in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature. The ideal temperature for storing Meritage wines is between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also important to store the wine horizontally, so that the cork stays moist and prevents air from entering the bottle.
Meritage wines can be enjoyed immediately, but they can also be aged for several years. Red Meritage wines can be aged for up to 10 years, while white Meritage wines should be consumed within 3-5 years of the vintage date.
FAQs for What is a Meritage Wine
What is Meritage Wine?
Meritage is a term used to describe a high-quality blended wine that is made from traditional Bordeaux grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Merlot. The word Meritage combines two words, ‘Merit’ and ‘Heritage,’ meaning that the wine produced must meet certain quality standards while being made using the same winemaking traditions as Bordeaux wines.
What is the difference between Meritage and Bordeaux wine?
Meritage wines are similar to Bordeaux wines because they feature a blend of traditional Bordeaux grapes. Still, the primary difference between Meritage and Bordeaux wines comes down to their origin. Bordeaux wines come from a specific wine-producing region in France, whereas Meritage is a blend made in North America outside of Bordeaux.
What are the different types of Meritage wine?
Meritage wines can be found in both red and white varieties, both of which must follow stringent Meritage Alliance standards. Most winemakers use classic Bordeaux grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc in red blends and Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle for white blends. Nevertheless, some vineyards incorporate additional grape varietals to highlight their unique terroir.
How do I serve Meritage wine?
A Meritage blend typically enjoys a full-bodied mouthfeel with a medium to high tannin structure that pairs nicely with hearty meals like prime rib, grilled meats or stews. You should serve red Meritage wines at or slightly below room temperature, around 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit, to get the best flavors and aromas. White Meritage wines should be chilled to around 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long can I cellar Meritage wine?
Meritage blends offer a great aging potential, and most bottles can age between 8 to 15 years. Their characteristic flavor profile, balancing well between acidity, tannin, and fruity flavors, makes them ideal for aging. It is, however, best to check the winemaker’s guidelines for an estimation on optimal aging.
Is Meritage wine expensive?
Meritage wines are typically more expensive than single varietal wines due to their selective grape varieties, and the requirement to adhere to specific winemaking traditions. Depending on the winemaker, location, and vintages, Meritage wines can range from affordable to quite expensive. Nevertheless, they offer a great value proposition due to their aging ability and unique flavor profile.