Do you refrigerate White Merlot?

Answered by Willie Powers

You should not refrigerate white Merlot. It is best served at room temperature to fully enjoy its flavors and aromas. Chilling white Merlot can actually diminish its taste and make it less enjoyable.

White Merlot is a type of wine made from the red Merlot grape variety, but with minimal contact with the grape skins during the winemaking process. This results in a lighter, crisper wine with delicate fruit flavors and a pale color. By serving it at room temperature, you allow these flavors to fully express themselves and enhance your overall tasting experience.

When white Merlot is served too cold, the low temperature numbs the taste buds and can mask the wine’s flavors. Chilling can also mute the aroma, making it more difficult to appreciate the wine’s aromatic qualities. If you’ve ever tried drinking a cold beverage and noticed that it seemed somewhat flavorless, it’s a similar concept with white Merlot.

To get the most out of your white Merlot, it’s recommended to serve it at a temperature between 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit (12-15 degrees Celsius), which is considered room temperature for most people. This allows the wine to breathe and develop its full range of flavors. If your white Merlot has been stored in the refrigerator, you may want to take it out a little while before serving to allow it to warm up slightly.

Of course, personal preferences can vary, and some people may still enjoy the taste of chilled white Merlot. If you prefer a cooler temperature, you can slightly chill it, but avoid serving it ice-cold straight from the fridge. Just be aware that you may not experience the full flavor profile that the wine has to offer.

Refrigerating white Merlot is not recommended as it can diminish its flavors and aromas. It is best enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate its delicate fruit flavors and aromas. So next time you open a bottle of white Merlot, let it breathe and serve it at room temperature for the best tasting experience.