Malbec vs Merlot
How to tell them apart in a blind tasting
The clearest separator between Malbec and Merlot is tannin: Malbec is Medium(+) while Merlot is Medium. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Structure compared
| Structure compared | Malbec | Merlot |
|---|---|---|
| Acidity | Medium | Medium |
| Tannin | Medium(+) | Medium |
| Body | Full | Medium(+) |
| Alcohol | Medium | Medium |
| Color intensity | Deep | Medium |
| Aromatic intensity | Medium(+) | Medium |
Signature aromas
Malbec
black plumblackberryviolet
Merlot
plumblack cherrychocolate
Common questions
- How do you tell Malbec and Merlot apart in a blind tasting?
- The clearest separator between Malbec and Merlot is tannin: Malbec is Medium(+) while Merlot is Medium. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
- Is Malbec or Merlot higher in tannin?
- On the WSET ladder, Malbec is Medium(+) and Merlot is Medium for tannin.
- Are Malbec and Merlot red or white?
- Malbec and Merlot are both red grape varieties.