Meritage

Meritage is a term used to describe a category of blended wines made primarily in the United States. These wines are crafted from specific grape varieties traditionally associated with the Bordeaux region of France. The term "Meritage" is a portmanteau of "merit" and "heritage," reflecting the quality and tradition of the wines.

History

The concept of Meritage wines originated in the late 1980s. In 1988, a group of American vintners formed the Meritage Association, now known as the Meritage Alliance, to promote and protect the production of high-quality blended wines in the United States. The term "Meritage" was coined to provide a recognizable name for these wines, which did not fit into the existing varietal labeling system.

Grape Varieties

Meritage wines are typically made from a blend of Bordeaux grape varieties. For red Meritage wines, the primary grapes include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. White Meritage wines are less common and are usually made from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle.

Production

Meritage wines

To be labeled as a Meritage, a wine must meet certain criteria set by the Meritage Alliance. The wine must be a blend of at least two of the traditional Bordeaux grape varieties, with no single variety making up more than 90% of the blend. Additionally, the wine must be the winery's best blend and produced in limited quantities.

Characteristics

Meritage wines are known for their complexity and balance. Red Meritage wines often exhibit rich flavors of dark fruit, such as blackberry and plum, with notes of spice, tobacco, and leather. They typically have a firm tannic structure and the potential for aging. White Meritage wines are characterized by their crisp acidity and flavors of citrus, melon, and honey.

Meritage Alliance

The Meritage Alliance is an organization that supports the production and marketing of Meritage wines. It provides guidelines for winemakers and promotes the Meritage brand through events and educational programs. Membership in the alliance is open to wineries that produce Meritage wines in accordance with the established standards.

Related pages

• Bordeaux wine
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Wine production