Heritage Wines and Spirits: Unveiling the World of Meritage

When it comes to purchasing wine, trust is a crucial factor. You want to be assured that what's inside the bottle is of high quality. This is precisely why some meritage wines can command a hefty price tag of around $600, while others remain affordable, priced at or under $20.

Meritage wines can take two forms: red and white. Traditionally, they are made from the best grapes of a particular vintage, with a dominant grape variety blended with other noble grapes. The minimum requirement is that any bottle must contain at least two different varieties.

So, what exactly does 'meritage' mean? When you break it down, you get 'merit,' which translates to worth or value, and 'heritage,' which references the winemaking style's French/Bordeaux roots.

In the United States, a group of fed-up American winemakers decided to take matters into their own hands in 1988. They were frustrated with having to label their wines as 'red blend' or 'table wine,' which lacked cultural significance. In contrast, French wines carrying the Bordeaux designation on the label could command high prices and draw large crowds.

In reality, some American winemakers were already creating sophisticated blends similar to those found in Bordeaux. They simply didn't have a term to describe their wines. This was largely due to early American winemaking's focus on single varietal wines, with a minimum requirement of 75% grape content.

By the late 1980s, some American winemakers had grown tired of generic names and were seeking a way to differentiate their high-quality, value-driven wines. The 'Judgment of Paris' wine competition in 1976, where Napa Valley winemakers beat French counterparts, had already proven that American wines could hold their own against the best.

Meritage is essentially a made-up word, but its pronunciation holds significance. It's not pronounced as 'Mary-Taj,' but rather like 'heritage.' The term has become synonymous with the art of blending grapes to create a wine worthy of its French/Bordeaux heritage.

In conclusion, meritage wines offer a unique blend of quality and value, backed by a rich history and cultural significance. Whether you're looking for an affordable option or a premium bottle, understanding the concept behind meritage can elevate your appreciation for these exceptional wines.

Heritage wines and spirits