Merlot is one of the most popular wines in the world, as well as among kosher wine. It is a medium body grape, with hints of plum and berry, and it has low tannins. Because it ripens early, it is hardy and durable. Often it is blended with the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, to achieve a wine with more moderate tannins.

This varietal does better in cooler soil and can ripen early, meaning it is susceptible to frost and rot. Some oenologists prefer to let the fruit hang for a few extra days in favor of the more fruity flavors that this method produces. Those who prefer early picking enjoy more acidity and greater potential for aging.

White merlot also exists and is made without the skins of the grape. Although the color of the wine is pink, it is not a rose and usually contains raspberry flavors.

Merlots can be paired with almost any kind of food. More cabernet leaning merlots are good to pair with any red meat, while lighter, more pinot noir leaning merlots can be paired with salmon and other seafood. An excellent medium in the red wine world, merlot can be enjoyed anywhere.

Israeli merlots are excellent examples of kosher wine.