Merlot is a popular red wine grape known for being soft, approachable, and fruity, with flavours of plum, black cherry, and raspberry. Its profile can range from medium-bodied and fruity in warmer climates to more structured with earthy notes in cooler regions. It's often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon to soften its tannins, but it also makes a delicious single-varietal wine, often featuring notes of vanilla, chocolate, and spice as it ages.