After Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot is the most popular varietal in the U.S. An easy drinking red thats soft, ripe and elegant, merlot is a great starter wine for newer red wine drinkers. French for The Little Blackbird, the Merlot grape became known in Bordeaux for its unique ability to add softness and luscious fruit when combined with the regions favorite grape, Cabernet Sauvignon.