English Reference
noun

merlot

n.
US /ˈmɝɫət/ mer·lot UK spelling merlots

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Cooking

    a type of dry red wine that is usually soft and smooth.

    a dry red wine produced from the Merlot grape variety, typically characterized by a medium body and soft tannins.

    Simple

    We ordered a bottle of merlot to go with our steak dinner.

    In context

    The sommelier recommended a local merlot, noting that its plum notes would complement the richness of the roasted duck.

    red wine
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    a dark blue grape used for making wine.

    a variety of black wine grape used both as a blending grape and for varietal wines.

    Simple

    The farmer decided to plant merlot because the soil was perfect for it.

    In context

    Merlot is one of the primary grapes used in Bordeaux blends, valued for its ability to add fleshiness and color to the wine.

    wine grape
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated