Meritage is a term used to describe a blend of two or more of the traditional Bordeaux grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The term was created by a group of American winemakers and marketers in the late 1980s who wanted to create a term to describe high-quality Bordeaux-style blends made in the United States.
The term “Meritage” is a combination of the words “merit” and “heritage,” and was created as a way to promote high-quality Bordeaux-style blends made in the United States. The Meritage Association was founded in 1988 by a group of American winemakers who wanted to create a term to describe these blends, as the term “Bordeaux-style” was not allowed to be used on wine labels unless the wine was made in the Bordeaux region of France.
To be labeled as a Meritage wine, a wine must meet certain requirements set forth by the Meritage Association. These requirements include:
The wine must be a blend of two or more of the traditional Bordeaux grape varieties.
No single grape variety can make up more than 90% of the blend.
The wine must be produced and bottled in the United States.
The winery must be a member of the Meritage Association.
Along with the Meritage Association set guidelines for the production of Meritage wines, a winery must obtain a license in order to use the term “Meritage” on the label. These wineries choose to adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Meritage Association in order to ensure that their wines are of high quality and meet the expectations of consumers.
Meritage wines are often compared to Bordeaux wines, as they are made from the same grape varieties and are often produced in a similar style. Meritage wines are restricted to the same grape varieties as Bordeaux wines, however it’s the winemaker’s skill which helps create the unique and distinctive blends that showcase the terroir of their vineyards.
Meritage wines are produced in many regions throughout the United States, including California, Washington, and Virginia. They are often made in small quantities and are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate their complexity and balance.
Overall, the creation of the term “Meritage” has helped to promote high-quality Bordeaux-style blends made in the United States, and has given winemakers a way to differentiate their wines from other blends. Whether you’re a fan of Bordeaux wines or are looking to explore the world of Meritage blends, understanding the history and requirements of this term can help you make informed decisions and appreciate the wines in a deeper way.
Wine is sunlight, held together by water.”- Galileo Galilei
