Grape Vine 'Merlot'

Often described as the second of the 'noble' claret varieties - which is strange as it is the main grape of such greats as St. Emilion and the mighty (and pricey) Château Pétrus. Originating from France it is now grown throughout the world, where its soft, plummy flavour has made it a favourite both as a varietal wine and for blending.

The tight bunches of blue-purple-black fruits produce a rich red juice that can be sweetened for drinking, or fermented to make fine red table wines.

Apart from in the warmest parts of the UK it is unlikely that the fruit will ripen fully before the onset of winter if grown outdoors, and so growing under protection is recommended.

• Originally from France.
• Late-season fruit ripening (probably too late for most of the UK outside).
• Winter wood ripening is good - so can be grown both outdoors or under protection (greenhouse, polytunnel or conservatory), though to guarantee fruit ripening we recommend protected growing.
• Can be trained using either the cane replacement method or spur pruning.
• Self fertile.
• Fruit contains seeds.