Merlot
Basics:	Classic grape widely grown in the Bordeaux region of France and elsewhere.
Grower   Comments: (by County)	ANNE ARUNDEL: Good producer, early ripening, Crown gaul can be severe in low areas leading to vine death, high pH in the wine ANNE ARUNDEL: I thought Merlot would perform better then it has- Will probably have to replace most, if not all the vines with a different variety. BALTIMORE: When ripe, makes nice wine CALVERT: Seems to do well once it gets started. CARROLL: Subject to cold damage FREDERICK: Can be more difficult to grow than other Bordeaux reds, but is easier to ripen and makes a nice wine HARFORD: Small planting, but had no problems. QUEEN ANNE'S: Grows well. TA is generally on low side/pH on high side to achieving sufficient ripeness. High yields & consistent crop. QUEEN ANNE'S: Grows well for us and is easy to train TALBOT: Somewhat resistant to disease - good yield, salable condition in our growing condition
Growing   Recommendations:	Ripens in early October, East Coast results have been mixed due its relative lack of cold-hardiness and the fruit subject to bunch rots. Thin skined fruit increases disease risks. Be careful of overcropping.
Winery   Considerations:	Often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon to "soften" the wine. Merlot wines are frequently described as "velvety". Has high consumer demand.