Discover the key differences, flavour profiles, and food pairings of two iconic red wines, and explore premium bottles available at WYN Store in Somerset West.
Key Takeaways:
- Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are both Bordeaux-originating grapes with unique flavour profiles and growing popularity in South Africa.
- Cabernet is bold and structured, pairing well with red meats and ageing beautifully over decades.
- Merlot is softer and fruitier, ideal for lighter meals and often more approachable for beginners.
- South African producers craft exceptional expressions of both, with standout bottles available at WYN Store.
- “Last Thursday” tastings at WYN Store allow you to explore both side by side in a relaxed, informative setting.
Origin and Heritage
Both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot hail from Bordeaux, France, and have become household names in red wine globally.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: A cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, known for structure, boldness, and ageing potential.
- Merlot: Valued for its fruit-forward, smooth character, making it a favourite in blends and on its own.
- Today, South African winemakers bring new life to both varietals with terroir-driven styles from Stellenbosch, Paarl, and surrounding regions.
Flavour Profiles: Cabernet vs Merlot
Cabernet Sauvignon
- Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, cedar, mint, graphite
- Texture: Full-bodied with firm tannins
- Common Regions: Stellenbosch, Napa Valley, Bordeaux (Left Bank)
- Ideal For: Bold wine lovers and long-term cellaring
Merlot
- Tasting Notes: Cherry, plum, chocolate, vanilla
- Texture: Medium-bodied with soft, silky tannins
- Common Regions: Paarl, Bordeaux (Right Bank), Carneros
- Ideal For: New wine drinkers or those preferring smooth, easy-drinking reds
Food Pairings
Best Dishes for Cabernet Sauvignon:
- Grilled steak, lamb chops
- Aged cheddar, gouda
- Beef ragu, lasagne
- Dark chocolate desserts
Best Dishes for Merlot:
- Roast chicken, turkey
- Creamy brie or camembert
- Mushroom pasta, grilled salmon
- Pork tenderloin, veggie-based dishes
Where They Shine: Popular Regions
- France: Bordeaux – Cabernet on the Left Bank, Merlot on the Right
- South Africa: Stellenbosch, Elgin, Paarl — exceptional examples of both varietals
- USA: Napa Valley – powerhouse Cabernets, silky Merlots
- Australia: Margaret River – vibrant, aromatic Cabs and balanced Merlots
- Chile: Maipo & Colchagua Valleys – fruit-driven and wallet-friendly
Visit WYN Store in Somerset West to explore curated bottles from these regions.
Ageing Potential
- Cabernet Sauvignon: 10–30 years for top-tier bottles. Ages into notes of tobacco, leather, and earth.
- Merlot: Best enjoyed within 5–12 years. Develops richer chocolate and spice over time.
WYN Store frequently features vertical tastings, aged reserves, and limited releases for both varietals.
Which One’s Right for You?
- Prefer bold, complex, and structured red wine? Go for Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Want something smooth, fruit-forward, and versatile? Start with Merlot.
The best way to choose? Taste them side by side. Join WYN Store’s next “Last Thursday” tasting and refine your palate with expert guidance and regional insight.
Final Sip
At WYN Store, we believe the best wine is the one that suits your taste, occasion, and curiosity.
Whether you gravitate toward Cabernet’s structure or Merlot’s softness, you’ll find curated bottles, rare vintages, and local gems waiting on our shelves.
Ready to discover your new favourite red?
📍 Visit us in Somerset West or explore our premium red wine collection online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes WYN Store in Somerset West unique for wine lovers?
WYN Store stands out for its focus on premium and small-batch wines, regular tastings, and expert recommendations. It connects the local community with handpicked selections from both local and international vineyards, making it an ideal destination for discovering unique and high-quality wines.
What are the main differences between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot?
Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its bold, structured profile with flavours like blackcurrant, cedar, and mint, complemented by firm tannins. Merlot offers a softer style with cherry, plum, and raspberry notes, along with smooth, supple tannins, making it more approachable for many wine drinkers.
Which foods pair best with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot?
Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with robust dishes such as grilled red meats and rich, tomato-based meals, thanks to its full body and high tannins. Merlot suits lighter fare like roast chicken, creamy cheeses, and dishes with softer flavours, making it versatile for various occasions.
Can Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot be aged?
Yes, Cabernet Sauvignon is well-suited for cellaring, with quality bottles ageing up to 30 years and developing complex flavours over time. Merlot is generally more approachable early but can also benefit from medium-term cellaring, especially in premium expressions, maintaining freshness for several years.
What regions are best known for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot?
Bordeaux, France, is most famous for both varietals, with the Left Bank favouring Cabernet-based blends and the Right Bank focusing on Merlot. South Africa’s Stellenbosch and Paarl, California’s Napa Valley, Australia’s Margaret River, and Chile’s Maipo and Colchagua Valleys also produce excellent examples.
How does WYN Store help customers choose the right wine?
WYN Store hosts regular tastings, including their “Last Thursday” sessions, allowing customers to sample and compare wines side by side. The knowledgeable team offers expert recommendations based on individual preferences, food pairings, and the occasion, helping customers make informed choices.
Is Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon better for beginners?
Merlot is often considered more approachable for beginners due to its softer, fruit-forward character and smooth tannins. However, those who enjoy bolder flavours and structure may prefer Cabernet Sauvignon. Trying both at tastings can help you discover your personal preference.
Are there award-winning bottles available at WYN Store?
Yes, WYN Store features award-winning and exclusive-release bottles of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot from notable regions such as Stellenbosch, Bordeaux, and Napa Valley, providing options for both everyday drinkers and collectors.