As with most Saint-Émilion wines Franc Mayne is produced mostly from Merlot grapes.
His speciality is the proper use of the Merlot grape, the principal variety in Pomerol wines.
Long has been dedicated to enology research into other states, particularly Washington which she considers to have the best Merlot grapes in the world.
Wine consultant Michel Rolland is a major proponent of reducing the yields of Merlot grapes to improve quality.
A characteristic of the Merlot grape is the propensity to quickly overripen once it hits its initial ripeness level, sometimes in a matter of a few days.
After the purchasing the Blackbird Vineyard, Polenske created a wine label based around the Merlot grapes grown in the vineyard.
L'Agassant D'Agassac : the second label of Château D'Agassac since 2006 made with 90% Merlot grapes.
Today, the vines are planted on clay-limestone hilltops, the optimum soil and environment for the Merlot grape.
If Merlot grapes are picked when Carménère is fully ripe, they will be overripe and impart a "jammy" character.
If the grapes are picked earlier when only the Merlot grapes have reached ripeness, the Carménère will have an aggressive green pepper flavor.
