Martin-Pouret Single-Varietal Merlot Vinegar 7°

Tasting Notes of the Curator

This vinegar opens with a warm, approachable aromatic profile. Notes of ripe red fruit—plum, cherry, and softened grape skin—lead the nose, underscored by gentle wine maturity rather than sharpness. On the palate, the acidity unfolds smoothly and with restraint. At 7°, it provides lift without austerity, allowing Merlot’s naturally round, supple character to remain front and center. Oak aging through the Orléans process adds subtle depth and integration, smoothing the vinegar’s structure and lending a faint, savory warmth. The texture feels composed and fluid, with a finish that lingers softly rather than snapping away. This is a red wine vinegar that favors balance over intensity, bringing harmony and ease to dishes that call for acidity without tension.

Pairings and Suggestions

This vinegar is especially well-suited to everyday yet thoughtful cooking.

Ideal for vinaigrettes with olive oil, especially for mixed greens, lentils, or warm salads.

Deglaze pans for chicken, pork, or duck, adding lift while maintaining roundness.

Add depth to roasted vegetables, particularly root vegetables and mushrooms.

Brighten tomato-based dishes or sauces without introducing harshness.

Excellent for home cooks seeking finesse, where acidity should feel integrated rather than assertive.

Merlot, Interpreted as Vinegar

Merlot is prized for its softness and approachability, and Martin-Pouret preserves those qualities by choosing a 7° acidity that respects the grape’s natural balance. Single-varietal vinegars leave no room for correction—no blends, no infusions—only the integrity of the wine and the discipline of time. Through slow fermentation and oak aging in Orléans, this vinegar evolves gently, transforming Merlot’s fruit-forward character into a seasoning that feels complete and resolved. It’s an expression of red wine acidity that favors harmony, making it one of the most accessible entries in the Martin-Pouret single-varietal range.

Storage Instructions

Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required. Reseal tightly after use.