Merlot is a popular red wine that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods and is often used in cooking. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the many ways you can use Merlot in your cooking.
The Basics of Merlot
1. What is Merlot?
Merlot is a red wine grape variety that is grown all over the world. It is known for its soft, velvety texture and fruit-forward flavors, which include black cherry, plum, and raspberry. Merlot is often used in blends with other red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.
2. Pairing Merlot with Food
Merlot is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods. It is particularly well-suited to rich, hearty dishes, such as grilled meats, stews, and roasts. Merlot also pairs well with softer cheeses, like Brie and Camembert.
3. Cooking with Merlot
Merlot can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic Italian pasta sauces to hearty beef stews. When cooking with Merlot, it’s important to choose a high-quality wine that you would also enjoy drinking. Be sure to cook with a wine that you would be happy to serve alongside your dish.
Using Merlot in the Kitchen
1. Marinating Meats
Merlot makes a great marinade for meats, especially beef. Its fruity notes help to tenderize the meat and add depth of flavor. To make a Merlot marinade, combine equal parts Merlot and olive oil, along with garlic, herbs, and spices. Marinate your meat for at least an hour before grilling or roasting.
2. Reducing Sauces
Merlot is often used in classic French cuisine to make rich, flavorful sauces. To make a Merlot sauce, start by sautéing shallots and garlic in butter. Add Merlot and reduce the wine by half. Then add beef or chicken stock, along with herbs like thyme and rosemary. Simmer the sauce until it thickens and use it to top grilled or roasted meats.
3. Risottos and Pasta Sauces
Merlot can be used to make rich and flavorful risottos and pasta sauces. For a simple Merlot risotto, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add Arborio rice and toast for a few minutes, then add Merlot and cook until absorbed. Gradually add hot chicken stock, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked through. Finish with Parmesan cheese and serve.
4. Desserts
Merlot can even be used in desserts, such as poached pears or chocolate cake. For poached pears, simmer peeled and cored pears in a mixture of Merlot, sugar, and water until tender. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream. For a decadent chocolate cake, add Merlot to the batter instead of water or milk. The wine will add depth of flavor and richness to the cake.
Choosing the Right Merlot
1. New World vs Old World Merlots
Merlot is grown all over the world, from France and Italy to the United States and Australia. New World Merlots, which are grown outside of Europe, tend to be fruitier and less tannic than their Old World counterparts. Old World Merlots, which are grown in traditional European wine regions, tend to be more structured and complex.
2. Price Point
Merlot can vary greatly in price, from inexpensive bottles that you might find at your local grocery store, to high-end wines that cost hundreds of dollars. When cooking with Merlot, you don’t necessarily need to use the most expensive bottle. However, it’s important to choose a wine that you would enjoy drinking, as the flavors will be concentrated in your dish.
3. Region and Vintage
When choosing a Merlot, consider the region and vintage. Some regions are known for producing particularly good Merlots, such as Bordeaux in France and Napa Valley in California. The vintage can also have an impact on the flavor of the wine, as some years produce better grapes than others.
In conclusion, Merlot is a versatile wine that can be used in a variety of dishes, from marinades to desserts. When cooking with Merlot, be sure to choose a high-quality wine that you would enjoy drinking. Experiment with different recipes and techniques to discover the many ways you can incorporate Merlot into your cooking.
