Item Number: FV035
Merlot Wine Grape Vine
Merlot Wine Grape Vine
Smooth red grapes for soft wines.
Merlot grapes are a popular wine variety, producing small, dark-skinned fruit with soft tannins and a smooth flavor. These grapes are perfect for crafting medium-bodied red wines with notes of plum, cherry, and chocolate. Thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, Merlot vines are vigorous and adaptable to a range of climates. Known for their reliability and rich flavor, Merlot grapes are an excellent choice for home winemakers and vineyards.
- Bare Root Vine
- Variety: European
- Zones: 6-10
- Pruning: Spur prune (preferred)/ Cane prune
- Harvest: September-October
- Flavor Notes: Noted for berry, tea leaf, plum, and currant flavors.
- Facts of note: Merlot is a red wine grape is used as both a blending grape and for varietal wines. While its flavor profile is similar to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot tends to be less distinctive and slightly more herbaceous overall in both aroma and taste. The berries are fairly thin skinned and are somewhat susceptible to rot if exposed to rain when they are ripe. It is important to keep an eye on the berries as they ripen and pick them as soon as they are ripe.
Merlot is one of the most widely planted wine grape varieties in the world, known for its soft tannins, juicy fruit flavors, and ability to adapt to a range of climates. Originating from Europe, specifically France, Merlot is often used as both a blending grape and in varietal wines. Its rich flavor profile includes notes of berry, plum, tea leaf, and currant, making it a favorite among wine producers and consumers alike. Growing Merlot wine grape vines requires attention to detail in terms of soil, climate, pruning, and timing of harvest to ensure the highest quality fruit production.
Growing Grapes: The Merlot Wine Grape Vine
Merlot vines are classified as a European variety, derived from the Vitis vinifera species. These grapes are favored for their ability to thrive in moderate to warm climates, making them suitable for USDA zones 6-10. Merlot vines tend to be more forgiving in various growing conditions compared to other red wine grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, which has made them a popular choice for both novice and experienced growers.
Merlot vines require full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth and fruit production. The vines produce medium to large clusters of dark blue or purple grapes, which are thin-skinned and susceptible to rot if exposed to excessive moisture, particularly as the fruit ripens. Therefore, selecting the right location and managing the vineyard's microclimate are critical when growing Merlot.
Climate Requirements and Planting
Merlot grapes thrive in regions with long, warm summers and cool, but not excessively cold, winters. The ideal temperature range for Merlot during the growing season is between 60-85°F. In areas where temperatures dip below 20°F in the winter, growers should take precautions to protect the vines from frost damage.
When choosing a site for planting, look for a location that offers good sun exposure and air circulation, as this will help reduce the risk of disease and rot. Merlot vines are particularly sensitive to excessive moisture, especially as the grapes approach maturity, so selecting a site with well-drained soil is essential.
Prepare the soil by removing weeds and debris and loosening it to allow for proper root development. Adding compost or organic matter can improve the soil’s fertility and structure, but avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in excessive vine growth at the expense of fruit production. Space the vines 6-8 feet apart to give them room to spread and ensure adequate air circulation.
Grape Pruning: Maximizing Fruit Production
Proper grape pruning is essential for maintaining the health of Merlot vines and promoting high-quality fruit production. Like most wine grape varieties, Merlot benefits from annual pruning to remove old wood and encourage the growth of new, fruiting canes.
For Merlot, spur pruning is the preferred method. Spur pruning involves cutting back the previous year's growth to short, two- to three-bud spurs, which will produce the fruiting canes for the upcoming season. This method allows for better control of the vine’s growth and helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to poor air circulation and an increased risk of disease.
Cane pruning can also be used for Merlot, though it is less common. In this method, a few strong canes are selected from the previous year’s growth and cut back to around 10-15 buds each. Cane pruning tends to result in larger clusters of fruit but may require more attention to detail.
Regardless of the pruning method, it is important to prune during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This allows the vine to focus its energy on producing strong, healthy canes that will bear fruit in the coming season.
Watering and Fertilizing
Merlot grapevines are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but they will require consistent watering during the first few years as they develop their root systems. Deep watering is preferable to shallow, frequent watering, as it encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil. Once established, Merlot vines can typically go longer periods without water, especially in cooler climates or during the dormant season.
It is important to avoid overwatering, as Merlot grapes are susceptible to rot, especially as they approach maturity. Monitor the soil moisture levels carefully and water only when necessary, particularly during dry spells or in regions with sandy soils that drain quickly.
For fertilization, Merlot vines generally require minimal feeding. Applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help promote healthy growth, but avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. Organic fertilizers such as compost or well-aged manure can provide a slow release of nutrients and improve soil health over time.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Like many European grape varieties, Merlot is susceptible to several pests and diseases, particularly powdery mildew, botrytis bunch rot, and downy mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, shoots, and fruit, causing a white, powdery coating on the affected parts of the vine. Regular spraying with sulfur or other approved fungicides can help prevent and control powdery mildew outbreaks.
Botrytis bunch rot, also known as gray mold, can affect Merlot grapes, particularly if they are exposed to rain or excessive humidity as they ripen. This disease causes the grapes to rot and can ruin an entire crop if left unchecked. To reduce the risk of botrytis, ensure good air circulation around the vines, avoid overhead watering, and harvest the grapes promptly once they are ripe.
Birds and insects can also pose a threat to Merlot grapevines. Using bird netting or installing bird deterrents can help protect the fruit as it ripens, while insect pests such as grape leafhoppers and mites can be controlled with organic insecticides or the introduction of beneficial insects.
Harvesting Grapes: Timing Is Everything
Merlot grapes are typically harvested in September and October, depending on the climate and growing conditions. The grapes should be fully ripe before harvesting, as they do not continue to ripen after being picked. Unlike table grapes, which can be eaten fresh off the vine, Merlot grapes are primarily used for wine production, and the timing of the harvest can greatly influence the wine’s flavor profile.
Ripe Merlot grapes will have a deep blue or purple color, and the flavor should be rich and balanced, with notes of berry, plum, and currant. It is important to monitor the sugar levels (measured in degrees Brix) to determine the optimal harvest time. For wine production, Merlot grapes are typically harvested when the sugar content is between 22-25 degrees Brix.
When harvesting, use sharp pruning shears to cut the grape clusters from the vine, taking care not to damage the stems or surrounding foliage. Handle the grapes gently to avoid bruising, as damaged fruit can lead to spoilage during the winemaking process.
Merlot Grapes for Wine Production and Table Grapes
While Merlot grapes are primarily grown for wine production, they can also be enjoyed as table grapes. However, due to their thin skins and susceptibility to rot, they are less commonly used for fresh eating compared to other grape varieties like Concord or Flame Seedless. That said, their juicy, flavorful berries can make a delicious addition to fruit salads or eaten on their own when harvested at peak ripeness.
In winemaking, Merlot is prized for its versatility and soft tannins, making it an ideal blending grape for Bordeaux-style wines or a varietal wine on its own. Its fruit-forward flavors and moderate acidity make it a popular choice for both red wine blends and standalone wines.
Conclusion
Growing Merlot wine grape vines requires careful attention to the unique needs of this European variety, particularly in terms of climate, soil, and pruning techniques. With proper care, Merlot vines can produce abundant crops of high-quality grapes that are ideal for wine production or even table use. Whether you are an experienced vintner or a hobbyist grower, Merlot offers the opportunity to cultivate a classic grape variety known for its rich, nuanced flavors and adaptability to various growing conditions. By ensuring proper pruning, watering, and disease management, growers can enjoy the rewarding process of producing their own Merlot grapes and, ultimately, their own wine.
Image by David Carrero Fernandez-Baillo
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Description
Description
Merlot grapes are a popular wine variety, producing small, dark-skinned fruit with soft tannins and a smooth flavor. These grapes are perfect for crafting medium-bodied red wines with notes of plum, cherry, and chocolate. Thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, Merlot vines are vigorous and adaptable to a range of climates. Known for their reliability and rich flavor, Merlot grapes are an excellent choice for home winemakers and vineyards.
- Bare Root Vine
- Variety: European
- Zones: 6-10
- Pruning: Spur prune (preferred)/ Cane prune
- Harvest: September-October
- Flavor Notes: Noted for berry, tea leaf, plum, and currant flavors.
- Facts of note: Merlot is a red wine grape is used as both a blending grape and for varietal wines. While its flavor profile is similar to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot tends to be less distinctive and slightly more herbaceous overall in both aroma and taste. The berries are fairly thin skinned and are somewhat susceptible to rot if exposed to rain when they are ripe. It is important to keep an eye on the berries as they ripen and pick them as soon as they are ripe.
Merlot is one of the most widely planted wine grape varieties in the world, known for its soft tannins, juicy fruit flavors, and ability to adapt to a range of climates. Originating from Europe, specifically France, Merlot is often used as both a blending grape and in varietal wines. Its rich flavor profile includes notes of berry, plum, tea leaf, and currant, making it a favorite among wine producers and consumers alike. Growing Merlot wine grape vines requires attention to detail in terms of soil, climate, pruning, and timing of harvest to ensure the highest quality fruit production.
Growing Grapes: The Merlot Wine Grape Vine
Merlot vines are classified as a European variety, derived from the Vitis vinifera species. These grapes are favored for their ability to thrive in moderate to warm climates, making them suitable for USDA zones 6-10. Merlot vines tend to be more forgiving in various growing conditions compared to other red wine grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, which has made them a popular choice for both novice and experienced growers.
Merlot vines require full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth and fruit production. The vines produce medium to large clusters of dark blue or purple grapes, which are thin-skinned and susceptible to rot if exposed to excessive moisture, particularly as the fruit ripens. Therefore, selecting the right location and managing the vineyard's microclimate are critical when growing Merlot.
Climate Requirements and Planting
Merlot grapes thrive in regions with long, warm summers and cool, but not excessively cold, winters. The ideal temperature range for Merlot during the growing season is between 60-85°F. In areas where temperatures dip below 20°F in the winter, growers should take precautions to protect the vines from frost damage.
When choosing a site for planting, look for a location that offers good sun exposure and air circulation, as this will help reduce the risk of disease and rot. Merlot vines are particularly sensitive to excessive moisture, especially as the grapes approach maturity, so selecting a site with well-drained soil is essential.
Prepare the soil by removing weeds and debris and loosening it to allow for proper root development. Adding compost or organic matter can improve the soil’s fertility and structure, but avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in excessive vine growth at the expense of fruit production. Space the vines 6-8 feet apart to give them room to spread and ensure adequate air circulation.
Grape Pruning: Maximizing Fruit Production
Proper grape pruning is essential for maintaining the health of Merlot vines and promoting high-quality fruit production. Like most wine grape varieties, Merlot benefits from annual pruning to remove old wood and encourage the growth of new, fruiting canes.
For Merlot, spur pruning is the preferred method. Spur pruning involves cutting back the previous year's growth to short, two- to three-bud spurs, which will produce the fruiting canes for the upcoming season. This method allows for better control of the vine’s growth and helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to poor air circulation and an increased risk of disease.
Cane pruning can also be used for Merlot, though it is less common. In this method, a few strong canes are selected from the previous year’s growth and cut back to around 10-15 buds each. Cane pruning tends to result in larger clusters of fruit but may require more attention to detail.
Regardless of the pruning method, it is important to prune during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This allows the vine to focus its energy on producing strong, healthy canes that will bear fruit in the coming season.
Watering and Fertilizing
Merlot grapevines are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but they will require consistent watering during the first few years as they develop their root systems. Deep watering is preferable to shallow, frequent watering, as it encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil. Once established, Merlot vines can typically go longer periods without water, especially in cooler climates or during the dormant season.
It is important to avoid overwatering, as Merlot grapes are susceptible to rot, especially as they approach maturity. Monitor the soil moisture levels carefully and water only when necessary, particularly during dry spells or in regions with sandy soils that drain quickly.
For fertilization, Merlot vines generally require minimal feeding. Applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help promote healthy growth, but avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. Organic fertilizers such as compost or well-aged manure can provide a slow release of nutrients and improve soil health over time.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Like many European grape varieties, Merlot is susceptible to several pests and diseases, particularly powdery mildew, botrytis bunch rot, and downy mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, shoots, and fruit, causing a white, powdery coating on the affected parts of the vine. Regular spraying with sulfur or other approved fungicides can help prevent and control powdery mildew outbreaks.
Botrytis bunch rot, also known as gray mold, can affect Merlot grapes, particularly if they are exposed to rain or excessive humidity as they ripen. This disease causes the grapes to rot and can ruin an entire crop if left unchecked. To reduce the risk of botrytis, ensure good air circulation around the vines, avoid overhead watering, and harvest the grapes promptly once they are ripe.
Birds and insects can also pose a threat to Merlot grapevines. Using bird netting or installing bird deterrents can help protect the fruit as it ripens, while insect pests such as grape leafhoppers and mites can be controlled with organic insecticides or the introduction of beneficial insects.
Harvesting Grapes: Timing Is Everything
Merlot grapes are typically harvested in September and October, depending on the climate and growing conditions. The grapes should be fully ripe before harvesting, as they do not continue to ripen after being picked. Unlike table grapes, which can be eaten fresh off the vine, Merlot grapes are primarily used for wine production, and the timing of the harvest can greatly influence the wine’s flavor profile.
Ripe Merlot grapes will have a deep blue or purple color, and the flavor should be rich and balanced, with notes of berry, plum, and currant. It is important to monitor the sugar levels (measured in degrees Brix) to determine the optimal harvest time. For wine production, Merlot grapes are typically harvested when the sugar content is between 22-25 degrees Brix.
When harvesting, use sharp pruning shears to cut the grape clusters from the vine, taking care not to damage the stems or surrounding foliage. Handle the grapes gently to avoid bruising, as damaged fruit can lead to spoilage during the winemaking process.
Merlot Grapes for Wine Production and Table Grapes
While Merlot grapes are primarily grown for wine production, they can also be enjoyed as table grapes. However, due to their thin skins and susceptibility to rot, they are less commonly used for fresh eating compared to other grape varieties like Concord or Flame Seedless. That said, their juicy, flavorful berries can make a delicious addition to fruit salads or eaten on their own when harvested at peak ripeness.
In winemaking, Merlot is prized for its versatility and soft tannins, making it an ideal blending grape for Bordeaux-style wines or a varietal wine on its own. Its fruit-forward flavors and moderate acidity make it a popular choice for both red wine blends and standalone wines.
Conclusion
Growing Merlot wine grape vines requires careful attention to the unique needs of this European variety, particularly in terms of climate, soil, and pruning techniques. With proper care, Merlot vines can produce abundant crops of high-quality grapes that are ideal for wine production or even table use. Whether you are an experienced vintner or a hobbyist grower, Merlot offers the opportunity to cultivate a classic grape variety known for its rich, nuanced flavors and adaptability to various growing conditions. By ensuring proper pruning, watering, and disease management, growers can enjoy the rewarding process of producing their own Merlot grapes and, ultimately, their own wine.
Image by David Carrero Fernandez-Baillo
Wine grapes have small berry like fruit with seeds. The flavor and color of wine is derived primarily from the skins. The best locations for planting grape vines are on slopes with good drainage and poor fertility.
Select a variety based on your climate and the type of wine desired. Find out if there are any vineyards in your area and what variety they grow — If they are having success with a specific variety you probably will as well!
Keep in mind each vine yields an average of one gallon of wine, but plant extra to make up for fruit loss from birds and other causes.
Our vines are 1-year-old plants, self-rooted from cuttings, no.1 grade with about 8” of top growth. Sold by individual bare root vine. Browse our collection of Table Grapes.
Shipping Information
Shipping Information
Cannot ship to the following states: HI, AK, PR, GU, VI
Cannot ship via USPS.
Cannot ship via SmartPost.
Shipping Weight: 3.3 lb
Dimensions: 18.0"L x 3.0"W x 3.0"H
Features
Features
- Open-Pollinated
- Thornless
Characteristics
Characteristics
Planting & Care
Planting & Care
Useful Information
Useful Information
Guarantee
Guarantee
Limited Dormant Tree & Plant Guarantee
* Claim deadline is June 15th
We guarantee that your dormant tree or plant will arrive in good, viable condition. If your tree arrives in substandard condition, notify us within 3 days of delivery. Please email pictures of the box, inside packaging, the tree and its roots to helpdesk@groworganic.com. We will investigate your claim and process a request to exchange or refund the damaged product.
If your dormant tree or plant has not grown new leaves by June 15th, you may be eligible for our Limited Dormant Tree & Plant Guarantee. This guarantee provides for a store credit for the purchase price of the tree, excluding shipping. Please see the Instructions below.
Important Dates:
- April 1st Dormant trees/plants must be planted in the ground
- May 15th Perform scratch test, if no new leaves have grown
- June 15th Deadline to apply for a dormant tree/plant credit
All required documentation must be received by June 15th for your claim to be considered. Claims or documentation received after June 15th will be denied, without exception. Instructions listed below
Terms and Conditions
We cannot guarantee that your tree or plant will remain alive and healthy after it is received, or bear fruit as there are too many variables in your environment that are beyond our control (i.e. soil preparation, weed and pest control, proper irrigation, chill hours, compatible hardiness for your growing zone, proper choice of pollinator, extreme weather, rodent damage, disease, etc.).
We cannot guarantee that we will be able to provide a replacement tree/plant of the same species either that same growing season or in future years. Customers are responsible for all shipping fees associated with replacement trees and plants.
If we determine that the tree you purchased directly from us is not viable, we will issue you a store credit (not a refund) for the purchase price of the affected dormant tree or plant. Shipping is not included in the dormant tree/plant guarantee. Store credits can be used to purchase any product we sell and are valid for use only until July 1st of the following year.
Historically, 98% of our dormant trees and plants grow and thrive when they have been cared for and planted using our growing guides. Dormant trees and plants must be planted in the ground by April 1st in order to be eligible for credit. If the ground in your area is still frozen solid, you may temporarily plant your tree or plant in a pot.
Potted, non-dormant trees or plants are excluded from this guarantee as they are not dormant at the time of shipment. Evergreen trees such as citrus, avocado and olive trees are not available for credit under the Dormant Tree and Plant Guarantee.
Instructions
We guarantee that your dormant fruit tree or plant will leaf out, if you care for it according to our growing guides. In the unlikely event that your dormant tree or plant does not have leaves by May 15th, follow these simple steps to apply for a store credit:
Before you call or email, please perform a “scratch test” to determine if the tree or plant is still alive. This video shows how to check for live tissue under the bark. Scratch tests need to be done a few inches above and below the graft.
Green Cambium Layer / Living Trees
If the cambium layer under the bark is green, give your tree a little more time. It is still alive, but hasn’t come out of dormancy yet. Check to make sure that it is getting the right amount of deep root water, enough sunlight and that the weather is warm enough for that type of tree/plant to come out of dormancy. Every tree has its own personality and will come out of dormancy at different times. Be sure to submit the required documentation listed below by June 15th, if it doesn’t grow leaves.
Brown Cambium Layer / Dead Trees
If the scratch test shows a brown cambium layer or if your dormant tree/plant doesn’t have leaves by June 1st, please email us at helpdesk@groworganic.com. All required documentation listed below must be received by June 15th for your claim to be considered. To be considered for the guarantee claim, all required documentation must be received by June 15th. Incomplete submissions will be denied.
Required Documentation
- Order number
- Name of dormant tree/plant and the quantity affected
- Photos of each tree or plant showing:
- The roots (tree or plant must be pulled out of the ground)
- The scratch test areas
- The entire tree/plant
We reserve the right to not issue credit for items that have already been replaced. We also reserve the right to require photographic evidence that the tree/plant was not killed by root rot, rodent or mechanical damage.
