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