Everything you need to know about Meritage

Meritage wines have their roots in the innovation and creativity of American winemakers during the late 20th century. The term "Meritage" was coined in the late 1980s as a way for U.S. vintners to craft and market Bordeaux-style blends without infringing on the geographically protected Bordeaux name, which is legally reserved for wines produced in the Bordeaux region of France.

The concept of Meritage emerged as American winemaking, particularly in California, was gaining international recognition. As winemakers in regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma County began to experiment with blending traditional Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, they faced a challenge: there was no appropriate term to describe these high-quality blends that followed the Bordeaux tradition. To solve this, a group of American vintners came together in 1988 to form the Meritage Association (now known as the Meritage Alliance).

The name "Meritage" was chosen from a contest, blending the words "merit" and "heritage" to signify the quality and tradition embodied in these wines. The Meritage Alliance established strict guidelines to maintain the integrity of the Meritage label, requiring that the wines be made from specific Bordeaux varietals and adhere to blending rules that encourage complexity and balance. Today, Meritage wines are recognized for their quality and craftsmanship, representing the best of American winemaking with a nod to Old World traditions.

What’s the Difference Between Red Meritage and Red Bordeaux Blends?

While Red Meritage and Red Bordeaux blends share many similarities, including their inspiration and the grape varieties used, there are several key differences between the two that stem primarily from their origin, regulation, and winemaking traditions.

Origin and Geography:  

Red Bordeaux blends are exclusively produced in the Bordeaux region of France. The term "Bordeaux" is a legally protected designation, meaning that only wines made in this specific region can carry the name. Bordeaux's climate, soil, and centuries-old winemaking traditions play a critical role in shaping the character of these wines.

Red Meritage, on the other hand, is a New World interpretation of the Bordeaux blend, primarily produced in the United States. The term "Meritage" was specifically created to describe Bordeaux-style blends made outside of France, particularly in the U.S. While Meritage wines are inspired by Bordeaux, they often reflect the unique terroirs and winemaking practices of American regions, such as California's Napa Valley and Sonoma County, and more recently, Virginia.

Regulation and Standards

Bordeaux wines are subject to strict French appellation laws that govern not only the grape varieties used but also viticultural practices, winemaking methods, and even aging requirements. These regulations ensure consistency and uphold the quality and reputation of Bordeaux wines on the global stage.

In contrast, Meritage wines, while adhering to specific standards set by the Meritage Alliance, are less tightly regulated compared to Bordeaux. To be labeled as Meritage, a wine must be made from at least two of the traditional Bordeaux varietals, with no single variety comprising more than 90% of the blend. This encourages winemakers to craft balanced blends, though they have more freedom in their winemaking techniques than their Bordeaux counterparts.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Bordeaux wines are steeped in centuries of tradition, often seen as benchmarks for quality and prestige in the wine world. The Bordeaux region has a rich history, and its wines are associated with luxury and excellence.

Meritage wines, while inspired by Bordeaux, represent a more modern, innovative approach to winemaking. They symbolize the creativity and adaptability of American vintners, who blend Old World techniques with New World freedom to produce wines that are both unique and expressive of their regional terroirs.

What’s Red Meritage Typically Made From?

Red Meritage wines are crafted from a specific set of grape varieties, all of which originated in the Bordeaux region of France. The blending of these varieties is essential to creating the complex, balanced profile characteristic of Meritage wines. The following are the primary grape varieties used in red Meritage blends:

1. Cabernet Sauvignon:  
Cabernet Sauvignon is often the dominant grape in red Meritage blends. Known for its bold structure, firm tannins, and deep flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and spices, Cabernet Sauvignon provides the backbone of the wine, contributing to its age-ability and intensity.

2. Merlot:  
Merlot is typically used to soften the blend, adding roundness and plush fruit flavors like cherry and plum. It balances the tannic structure of Cabernet Sauvignon, making the wine more approachable and smooth, especially in its youth.

3. Cabernet Franc:  
Cabernet Franc brings aromatic complexity and a lighter body to the blend. It is known for its floral notes, particularly violet, as well as red fruit flavors like raspberry and herbs. This grape adds elegance and a touch of spice to the wine.

4. Petit Verdot:  
Petit Verdot is often used in smaller quantities but plays a crucial role in adding depth of color, tannin, and intense flavors of violet, dark fruit, and sometimes a hint of leather. It enhances the wine's structure and complexity, making it more robust.

5. Malbec:  
Malbec contributes additional fruitiness, color, and smooth tannins to the blend. It imparts flavors of blackberry, plum, and sometimes a hint of cocoa or spice, adding richness to the wine.

6. Carmenère:  
Though less commonly used, Carmenère can add a distinctive character to Meritage wines. It offers spiciness, earthiness, and a unique herbal quality that can add complexity to the blend.

These varietals are blended in varying proportions to create a harmonious wine that reflects the winemaker's vision and the specific terroir of the region. The balance of these grapes results in a wine with layers of flavor, complexity, and the potential for aging.

Regions in the USA Notable for Meritage

Meritage wines are primarily associated with American winemaking, particularly in regions known for their Bordeaux varietals. While California is the most prominent producer of Meritage wines, other regions, including Virginia, have gained recognition for their quality Meritage blends.

1. Napa Valley, California:  
Napa Valley is the heart of Meritage production in the United States. The region's climate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, is ideal for growing Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Napa Valley's Meritage wines are known for their power, complexity, and ability to age gracefully. Wineries in this region have played a significant role in establishing the reputation of Meritage wines as world-class blends.

2. Sonoma County, California:  
Sonoma County, adjacent to Napa Valley, is another key region for Meritage production. The diverse microclimates and soils in Sonoma allow for the cultivation of a wide range of Bordeaux varietals, resulting in Meritage wines that are often more varied in style compared to those from Napa. Sonoma's Meritage blends are celebrated for their elegance, balance, and expression of the region's terroir.

3. Paso Robles, California:  
Paso Robles, located in California's Central Coast, has become a notable region for Meritage wines. The warmer climate here produces rich, fruit-forward blends with bold flavors and higher alcohol content. Paso Robles Meritage wines are known for their approachability and concentration, often showcasing ripe fruit and spice notes.

4. Washington State:  
The Columbia Valley in Washington State is gaining recognition for its Meritage wines. The region's cooler climate and long growing season allow for the production of blends that are more restrained, with pronounced acidity and elegant structure. Walla Walla Valley, in particular, has emerged as a hotspot for high-quality Meritage blends, offering wines with depth, balance, and aging potential.

5. Virginia:  
Virginia has rapidly become a notable region for Meritage wines, particularly in the Monticello AVA and surrounding areas. The state's climate, which features warm summers and cooler autumns, is well-suited to growing Bordeaux varietals. Virginia's Meritage blends often showcase a balance of fruit, acidity, and tannin, reflecting the unique terroir of the region. The state's commitment to producing high-quality Meritage wines has earned it a growing reputation among wine enthusiasts. Virginia's Meritage wines are known for their finesse, with flavors that range from bright red fruits to more savory, earthy notes, depending on the specific vineyard and vintage.

What to Eat When Drinking Red Meritage

Pairing food with red Meritage wines can enhance the tasting experience, bringing out the complexities of both the wine and the dish. The rich, structured profile of red Meritage makes it an excellent companion for a variety of foods, particularly those with robust flavors. Here are some food pairings to consider when enjoying red Meritage:

1. Grilled or Roasted Meats 
-Beef: A classic pairing with red Meritage is beef, particularly cuts like steak or a roast. The bold tannins in the wine complement the richness and fat of the meat, creating a harmonious balance that enhances the flavors of both.
-Lamb: Lamb, with its savory and slightly gamey flavor, pairs beautifully with the earthy, spicy notes often found in red Meritage wines. A lamb chop or roast with herbs like rosemary or thyme will elevate the wine's complexity.
- Pork: Grilled or roasted pork, especially with a garlic or rosemary rub, works well with Meritage's depth and structure. The wine's fruit and tannin complement the succulent texture of the meat.

2. Braised Dishes  
-Short Ribs: Slow-braised short ribs, cooked in a red wine reduction, are an excellent match for the deep flavors of a red Meritage. The richness of the dish highlights the wine's fruit and tannins.
-Beef Stew: A hearty beef stew with root vegetables can bring out the wine's earthy notes and structured tannins, making for a comforting and satisfying pairing.

3. Hard Cheeses  
-Aged Cheddar: The sharpness and crumbly texture of aged cheddar cheese pair well with the robust flavors of Meritage. The cheese's intensity complements the wine's tannins and fruit.
-Parmesan: Parmesan, with its salty, nutty character, enhances the wine's fruitiness and adds a pleasant contrast to its tannic structure.

4. Grilled Vegetables
-Mushrooms: Grilled portobello mushrooms or a medley of roasted vegetables, such as eggplant and bell peppers, can bring out the earthy, herbaceous qualities in a red Meritage. The umami flavors in the mushrooms complement the wine's savory notes.
-Asparagus: Grilled asparagus with a balsamic glaze pairs nicely with the wine's acidity and subtle green notes, providing a light yet flavorful option.

5. Rich Pasta Dishes  
-Beef Bolognese: A rich pasta with a meaty, tomato-based sauce, such as Bolognese, pairs wonderfully with a red Meritage. The acidity in the sauce mirrors the wine's structure, while the meat enhances the wine's depth.
-Mushroom Risotto: The creamy texture of risotto and the earthy flavor of mushrooms align perfectly with the complex profile of a red Meritage, making for a luxurious and satisfying pairing.

6. Dark Chocolate
-Dark Chocolate Desserts: For a sweet pairing, opt for desserts that feature dark chocolate, such as a flourless chocolate cake or chocolate truffles. The bitterness of dark chocolate harmonizes with the wine's tannins, while the fruit flavors complement the richness of the chocolate.

Conclusion

Meritage wines, with their rich history, complex blends, and versatile food pairings, are a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of American winemakers. Originating as a solution to market Bordeaux-style blends outside of France, Meritage has grown into a respected category in its own right, celebrated for its quality and tradition. Whether enjoyed with a grilled steak, a rich stew, or a simple cheese board, red Meritage offers a uniquely American take on the classic Bordeaux blend, reflecting the diverse terroirs and creative spirit of U.S. wine regions, including the emerging Virginia wine scene.