Merlot

Merlot is a red wine grape variety that is widely planted throughout the world. With its medium body, soft tannins, and fruit-forward flavors, Merlot is a popular choice for both casual drinkers and serious wine enthusiasts.

Pairs perfectly to these recipes...

Savor the Napa Valley flavors with this Cabernet Butter Burger, featuring caramelized onions and a rich wine-infused butter.

Cabernet Butter Burger with Caramelized Onions

Succulent smoked quail with sweet figs and spiced apple purée is a delicious and unique main course. This simple recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight meal.

Smoked & Sauced Quail with Figs & Spiced Apple Purée

Fluffy ricotta gnocchi tossed in a rich Merlot bolognese sauce for a comforting and flavorful dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight meal.

Ricotta Gnocchi in Merlot Bolognese

These mini meatballs are packed with flavor and perfect for parties or a quick and easy meal. Made with ground beef, arugula pesto, and your favorite toppings, these sliders are sure to be a hit.

Arugula Pesto Meatball Sliders

Discover the Ultimate Chilmole-Braised Short Ribs Recipe with a Fresh Herb Garnish. A Delectable and Hearty Dish!

Chilmole-Braised Short Ribs with Fresh Herb Garnish

Savor the flavors of Napa wine country with these authentic wine-glazed onions. A delightful recipe for wine lovers and home chefs seeking healthy, farm-to-table summer dinner ideas.

Napa Valley Wine-Glazed Onions

This rich and flavorful steak sauce is made with merlot wine, mushrooms, and other savory ingredients. It's the perfect way to enhance the flavor of your favorite steak recipe.

Merlot & Mushroom Medley Steak Sauce

Humboldt Fog Cheese & Merlot Poached Pear Salad

Unveil the magic of Napa Valley Pinot Noir-Braised Short Ribs & Organic Root Vegetables. A recipe that brings wine vineyard elegance to your table.

Napa Valley Pinot Noir-Braised Short Ribs with Organic Root Vegetables

Elevate your home chef skills with Dry-Aged Ribeye, Porcini Mushroom Sauce & Truffle-Parmesan Fries. A valley chef's delight.

Dry-Aged Ribeye with Porcini Mushroom Sauce and Truffle-Parmesan Fries

Elevate Pork Tenderloin with Cherry-Balsamic Reduction & Roasted Root Vegetables. A recipe that adds Napa authenticity to your dinner.

Pork Tenderloin with Cherry-Balsamic Reduction and Roasted Root Vegetables

Elevate burger night with Marin Grass-Fed Beef Burger, Grilled Onions & Point Reyes Blue Cheese. A valley chef's delight at home.

Marin Grass-Fed Beef Burger with Grilled Onions and Point Reyes Blue Cheese

Unveil valley chef magic with Grilled California Quail, Fig & Port Sauce. An authentic recipe bringing wine vineyard elegance to your table.

Grilled California Quail with Fig and Port Sauce

Roasted Rack of Lamb with Herb Crust

Merlot Plum Reduction

Enjoy Lentil & Vegetable Soup, Hearty Greens & Homemade Croutons. A quick, healthy recipe perfect for any home chef seeking Napa tastes.

Lentil and Vegetable Soup with Hearty Greens and Homemade Croutons

Indulge in Slow-Cooked Short Ribs, Cabernet Sauvignon. Elevate comfort food with Napa Valley authenticity and culinary excellence.

Slow-Cooked Short Ribs in Cabernet Sauvignon

Elevate your dinner with Seared Duck Breast, Cherry Reduction & Pinot Noir. A valley chef's delight adding Napa's sophistication to your table.

Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Reduction and Pinot Noir

Elevate your meal with Grilled Rib-Eye Steak & Red Wine Sauce. A valley chef's authentic recipe, bringing Napa elegance to your table.

Grilled Rib-Eye Steak with Red Wine Sauce

Common Tasting Notes

black cherry, plum, raspberry, blackberry, vanilla, oak, tobacco, leather, chocolate, violet, blueberry, mocha, cinnamon, clove, licorice, black pepper, bell pepper, thyme, sage, rosemary

What does it pair with?

Merlot is a versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of foods. Its soft, smooth texture and fruit-forward flavors make it a good match for grilled or roasted meats, such as beef, lamb, and pork. It also pairs well with dishes that feature tomato-based sauces or roasted vegetables. For a lighter pairing, try Merlot with pizza or pasta dishes with a tomato sauce.

Learn Something New in the Single Ingredient Series

Potato

The Versatile and Comforting Staple

Apple

A Flavorful Journey into the World of Apples

Explore the Series

Explore Napa Valley

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with the perfect Cabernet wine pairings. Explore our expert tips for a memorable holiday meal. Celebrate with the finest wine and cuisine.

The Ultimate Thanksgiving Cabernet Wine Pairing Guide

Discover the perfect Napa Valley spots to elope. Find romantic venues and tips for your intimate wedding escape amidst stunning landscapes.

Elope in Napa Valley: A Romantic Adventure Awaits

Discover how to make your own homemade yum yum sauce, the perfect condiment for steak, seafood, and vegetables. This easy-to-follow recipe will give you restaurant-quality results at home.

Crafting the Perfect Homemade Yum Yum Sauce

Embark on memorable wine bus tours. Explore vineyards, taste exquisite wines, and make lasting memories. Book your wine adventure today!

The Ultimate Guide to Wine Bus Tours in Napa Valley

Hello and welcome to Napa Home Chef! We're thrilled you're joining us to explore the vibrant world of wine country cooking. Our team has crafted bold, creative recipes inspired by Napa Valley's lush landscapes, bountiful harvests, and world-renowned wines. We hope you enjoy the journey with us!

Get ready to experience the rich flavors and unique culinary delights that embody the essence of wine country living. Happy cooking!

About Me

Don't miss a recipe!

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Coming soon - Cookbook!

Loving Napa Home Chef Recipes and wishing for more? Discover print exclusives!