This grape variety is originally from Bordeaux. It is grown in the Bordeaux area and the south of France. It is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world, with vineyards in Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Russia, Moldova, Rumania, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, United States, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Uruguay, South Africa, and Australia, as well as Lebanon and Morocco. Merlot is a relatively vigorous grape variety that does not do well under drought conditions. It is quite fertile and may have problems with poor fruit set , depending on the weather conditions during flowering. It has early bud-break so it is also susceptible to winter and spring frosts. It tends to suffer from downy mildew and leafhoppers. Merlot has medium-sized bunches and grapes. It produces deep-colored, soft, powerful wines with red-berry fruit aromas. Acidity may be a little low in some cases. Merlot wines are suitable for aging in oak barrel and develop complex aromas, especially in blends with Cabernet.