Malbec VS Merlot

Q: How is Malbec different from Merlot?

Malbec is typically more robust, tannic, and full-bodied with dark fruit flavours of blackberry and plum. Merlot is generally softer and rounder with ripe red fruit flavours of cherry and raspberry, lower tannins, and a smoother finish.

Q: Is Malbec more dry than Merlot?

Both Malbec and Merlot are typically dry wines. However, Malbec's robust tannins and full-bodied nature can give the perception of being drier than Merlot, which has a softer, plumper profile.

Q: Which is softer, Merlot or Malbec?

Merlot is generally softer than Malbec due to its lower tannin levels and rounder profile, making it feel smoother on the palate.

Q: Is Malbec sweet or dry?

Malbec is typically a dry wine. While its ripe, fruity flavours can be mistaken for sweetness, the wine itself is not sweet.

Q: Can I get red wine delivered same day in London?

Yes. Drinks House 247 offers same-day red wine delivery across Greater London in 30-45 minutes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Malbec and Merlot are two of the world’s most popular red wines, but they have very different taste profiles, tannin levels, and food pairings. Here’s everything you need to know — and both are available for same-day delivery across London in 30–45 minutes from our wine collection.

Malbec vs Merlot: Overview

Malbec

Malbec is a purple grape variety originating in France but now primarily associated with Argentina, where it is considered the national variety. Argentine Malbecs are ripe, plush, and full-bodied with flavours of blackberry, plum, leather, and smoky oak. In its native Cahors region of France, Malbec is more rustic with firm tannins and tart currant notes — sometimes called “the black wine” for its deep, inky colour.

Merlot

Merlot is one of the primary grapes of Bordeaux and the most widely planted grape in the Bordeaux wine regions. Merlot wines are round, plump, and juicy with flavours of blackberry, cherry, plum, chocolate, and herbal notes. Its softer tannins make it one of the most approachable and versatile red wines in the world.

Key Differences: Malbec vs Merlot

Body: Malbec is typically full-bodied (13.5–15% ABV); Merlot is medium to full-bodied (12–14% ABV)
Tannins: Malbec has higher tannins; Merlot has softer, rounder tannins
Flavour: Malbec — dark fruit, spice, earth; Merlot — ripe red fruit, chocolate, herbs
Colour: Malbec is darker and inkier; Merlot is a lighter ruby red
Origin: Malbec — Argentina (Mendoza) and France (Cahors); Merlot — Bordeaux, California, Italy

Food Pairings

Malbec pairs best with hearty, robust foods: red meat, BBQ, spicy dishes, and strong cheeses. Merlot is more versatile — excellent with poultry, red meat, pasta, and a wide range of cheeses. Browse our red wine collection to find the perfect bottle for your meal.

Interesting Facts

Malbec World Day is celebrated on April 17th, commemorating the day Argentina officially began transforming its wine industry in 1853
The name Merlot is thought to derive from merle, the French word for blackbird — a reference to the grape’s dark colour
Both Malbec and Merlot share a common parent grape: Cabernet Franc
Merlot is the second most planted grape in the world after Cabernet Sauvignon

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Malbec different from Merlot?

Malbec is more robust, tannic, and full-bodied with dark fruit flavours. Merlot is softer and rounder with ripe red fruit flavours and lower tannins. Browse both in our red wine collection.

Is Malbec more dry than Merlot?

Both are typically dry wines. Malbec’s robust tannins can give the perception of being drier, while Merlot’s softer profile feels plumper and juicier.

Which is softer, Merlot or Malbec?

Merlot is generally softer due to its lower tannin levels and rounder profile.

Is Malbec sweet or dry?

Malbec is typically a dry wine. Its ripe, fruity flavours can be mistaken for sweetness, but the wine itself is not sweet.

Can I get red wine delivered same day in London?

Yes — Drinks House 247 delivers across Greater London in 30–45 minutes, 24/7. Browse our red wine collection and order now. Also explore our full wine collection or browse wine gift sets.