Whether you’re at a fine-dining restaurant or enjoying a bottle at home, there’s something undeniably magical about a good glass of wine. But let’s be real—the world of wine can feel overwhelming. With so many types of wine, regions, winemaking techniques, and tasting notes floating around, where do you begin to choose the best wine for your meal?
At Eddie Merlot’s, we’re known for our USDA Prime steaks, but we’re just as passionate about guiding you through our expertly curated wine list. Whether you’re here to savor a perfectly seared ribeye or sip something delightful alongside seafood, understanding wine and wine pairings can transform your dining experience from great to unforgettable.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular wine varieties you should know so you can approach the wine list with confidence on your next reservation.
Why Knowing Your Wine Type Matters
We’ve all stared at a wine list feeling slightly panicked, hoping we pick something decent. However, when you understand the basics—like the difference between a red wine and a white wine, or why some bottles boast oak-aged flavors while others lean fruity—it’s no longer a guessing game. With just a little information, you can make intentional selections that elevate your meal. It’s not about being a wine snob; it’s about being a wine lover who knows what they enjoy and why.
Enhance Your Meal With Perfect Wine Pairing
Pairing wine with food is an art. A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the richness of a steak, while a light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio brings out the delicate flavor of seafood. A touch of bubbly sparkling wine can brighten up fried dishes, and a sweet wine or dessert wine like ice wine or port wine can round off a meal with a perfect touch of indulgence.
When you understand the role of grape variety, alcohol content, and wine region, each bite and sip work in harmony, making your meal unforgettable.
Build Confidence With Wine Tasting
Ever wonder why some wines taste oaky or buttery while others burst with fruity flavor? It often comes down to the grape skin, growing region, or aging technique. Understanding these details gives you the confidence to order or taste wines without stress. Suddenly, you can be a wine enthusiast exploring the craft behind every pour.
Popular Red Wine Types
Let’s break down some classic red wine you’ll see on most menus. These red grape varieties range from bold and structured to soft and silky. Each type offers its own unique flavor profile and mood, making it essential to understand their differences so you can order based on what your cravings or food pairings.
Cabernet Sauvignon
The king of red wine, Cabernet Sauvignon, is bold, powerful, and packed with dark fruit flavors like blackcurrant and plum, and notes of spice, tobacco, and oak. Its firm tannins and full body make it a wine that ages beautifully, developing more complex flavors over time. Whether sipped on its own or alongside a prime steak, it’s a wine that demands and rewards your attention.
Perfect Pairing: Rich steaks like ribeye or filet mignon, where the tannins cut through the fattiness beautifully.
Merlot
Smooth and approachable, Merlot offers flavors of black cherry, plum, and chocolate. It’s a versatile varietal wine that’s soft yet structured. With its round mouthfeel and gentle tannins, Merlot is often a go-to red for both casual sipping and dinner pairings. It’s also a fantastic “gateway” red for those new to bolder wines.
Perfect Pairing: Filet mignon, roasted chicken, or a juicy grilled burger.
Pinot Noir
Lighter-bodied and complex, Pinot Noir delivers cherry, raspberry, and earthy notes. It’s delicate, with bright acidity and subtle tannins. Known as the “heartbreak grape” for how tricky it is to grow, Pinot Noir rewards with elegance and nuance. Its versatility makes it beloved by sommeliers and home drinkers alike.
Perfect Pairing: Salmon, duck, or pork, especially with earthy dishes or aged cheeses.
Syrah / Shiraz
Known for bold, spicy notes of blackberry, pepper, and sometimes smoky bacon, Syrah (or Shiraz) is all about intensity. It’s a wine that can be velvety and rich or rugged and wild, depending on where it’s made. From the French Rhône Valley sophistication to the Australian Shiraz punch, this wine delivers drama in a glass.
Perfect Pairing: Grilled meats or anything with a smoky, charred edge.
Malbec
Fruity and bold, Malbec offers punchy flavors with a touch of spice. It’s less tannic than Cabernet but still offers depth. Originating in France but flourishing in Argentina, Malbec is now a global favorite for its approachable power. Its deep color and juicy profile make it a fantastic choice for bold, flavorful meals.
Perfect Pairing: Charred and spicy meats or anything bold and hearty.
Popular White Wine Types
White wines are incredibly versatile, ranging from crisp and mineral to lush and creamy. They come from white grapes and offer a refreshing counterpoint to rich or delicate foods.
Chardonnay
Depending on its style, Chardonnay can be oaky and buttery or bright and zippy, with notes of apple, pear, and tropical fruit. It’s one of the most adaptable white wines, with expressions that can please both lovers of rich, full-bodied wines and fans of crisp, mineral-driven sips. No wonder it’s a global favorite with a loyal following.
Perfect Pairing: Lobster with butter, creamy pastas, or roast chicken.
Sauvignon Blanc
A light-bodied white wine known for zingy citrus, green apple, and grassy notes, Sauvignon Blanc is refreshing and vibrant. Its lively acidity makes it an excellent palate cleanser, waking up your taste buds between bites. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser at picnics, brunches, or any sunny gathering.
Perfect Pairing: Salads, goat cheese, oysters, or delicate white fish.
Pinot Grigio
Also known as Pinot Gris, Pinot Grigio is crisp, light, and easy to drink, with lemon, lime, and green apple notes. It’s the kind of wine you reach for on a warm afternoon when you want something chilled and uncomplicated. Its subtle charm makes it an effortless companion to casual meals or laid-back moments.
Perfect Pairing: Light seafood, fresh salads, or just sipping outdoors.
Riesling Wine
Riesling ranges from dry to sweet, but always with floral aromatics, peach, and honey notes. Its high acidity balances even the richest dishes, making it one of the most food-friendly wines on the market. Whether you prefer a dry version or a lush, dessert-style bottle, Riesling offers a little something for everyone.
Perfect Pairing: Spicy dishes or dishes with sweet and savory notes.
Sparkling, Rosé, and Beyond
We can’t overlook the playful side of the wine world—sparkling wine, rosé wine, and specialty types like fortified wine and sweet white wine. These styles bring excitement and versatility to any occasion, offering something playful and unexpected for every palate.
Sparkling Wines & Champagne
With fine bubbles and crisp acidity, sparkling wines are versatile and pair beautifully with everything from oysters to desserts. They come in a range of styles, from dry brut to slightly sweet demi-sec, so there’s a bottle for every mood and occasion. Whether you’re toasting a special moment or just adding a little sparkle to an ordinary day, these wines bring a festive, celebratory feel to the table.
Rosé
Rosé wines are the ultimate middle ground between red and white — light, crisp, and packed with refreshing red fruit flavors like strawberry, raspberry, and watermelon. They can range from dry and delicate (like a Provence rosé) to bold and fruity (like a California or Spanish rosé), making them incredibly versatile. Whether you’re pairing rosé with salads, grilled seafood, charcuterie, or just enjoying a chilled glass on a sunny afternoon, rosé brings a bright, easygoing vibe to any summer occasion.
Discover the Wine List at Eddie Merlot’s
At Eddie Merlot’s, our fine wine selection is carefully curated to complement every dish, from bold, medium-bodied red wines paired with USDA prime steaks to light, crisp whites with fresh seafood entrees. Whether you’re an experienced wine lover or just beginning your wine journey, our team is here to help you explore new grape varieties, different aging techniques, and the perfect wine pairing for your meal.
Visit an Eddie Merlot’s near you and discover how the right selection from our wine list can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a big milestone or simply enjoying an evening out, we’re here to make sure every bite—and sip—is unforgettable.
Next time you open that wine list, take a deep breath and smile. With this information, you’re ready to order with confidence, so make your Eddie Merlot’s reservation today.
