Which Is Sweeter Merlot or Pinot Noir?

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Merlot is considered slightly sweeter than Pinot Noir, though both are dry red wines with little to no sugar.

When we perceive a wine as sweet, what we're often tasting is fruitiness coupled with a soft texture, as opposed to sugar. If a merlot tastes sweet, it's due to ripe plum and cherry notes, coupled with a smooth mouthfeel. Pinot Noir, on the other hand, tends to be light-bodied, brighter, and more acidic than Merlot. These qualities can contribute to the wine's tasting 'sweet' even in the absence of sugar.

Merlot vs. Pinot Noir: Sweetness Breakdown

Merlot

Flavor profile: You can expect notes of ripe black cherry, plum, hints of chocolate, and overall soft tannins.
Sweetness: Merlot is medium-bodied with a smooth, fruit-forward finish, and this may contribute to the wine sometimes being perceived as somewhat sweet.
Sugar Content: Merlot typically contains between zero and three grams per liter of residual sugar. Yes, you read that right, some merlots contain precisely zero sugar.
Best for: If you're looking for a fuller red wine that isn't harshly acidic, you're looking for merlot.
Pairing: By-the-book merlot pairings include beef and lamb, grilled or barbecued short ribs, and red sauces with pasta.

Pinot Noir

Flavor profile: Expect tart red cherry, lots of cranberry, earthy notes, and a bit of spice.
Sweetness: Pinot Noir is generally considered to be brighter, drier, and more acidic on the palate than Merlot.
Sugar Content: Pinot Noir often contains between zero and three grams per liter of residual sugar. As with merlot, it isn't uncommon for pinot noir to have zero sugar.
Best for: Those looking for a light, nuanced red wine with a bright and refreshing acidity.
Pairing: My go-to pairings are salmon, fatty fishes, roast chicken, and mushroom dishes.

FAQ: Are Either of These Wines Actually Sweet?

No. Merlot and pinot noir, like other dry red wines, are often fermented until most (or all) of their natural sugars are gone. Furthermore, neither of these wines typically features characteristics that can cause a wine to be perceived as sweet. Instead, sweet-tasting merlot and pinot noir are true outliers.

Quick Tip

If you're looking for a sweeter-tasting red wine, try a Beaujolais Nouveau, which is fruit-forward and low in tannins. If you want a true sweet red, try Lambrusco, Ruby Port, or Brachetto d'Acqui.

And that's my answer to whether Pinot Noir or Merlot is sweeter. For a more detailed overview of merlot and pinot noir, see our red wine guide.

Cheers!