Classic blending partner (as in Bordeaux) for cabernet, fashionable around the world. Slightly easier and more bland than a Cabernet.
The following have been tasted or are currently in my cellar to be tasted (8):
Vergelegen Merlot 2005
Delheim Merlot 2005
Delheim Merlot 2006
KWV Cathedral Cellar Merlot 2006
Hartenberg Merlot 2006
Elgin Vintners Merlot 2007
Meerlust Merlot 2005
Robertson Merlot 2009