Merlot, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, and Zinfandel are all pretty adaptable wines when paired with different types of food. First, when it comes to cheese, it is one of the more versatile wines. It pairs best with sharp, salty hard cheeses but is light enough to go well with more delicate semi-soft cheeses like Manchego or Gouda. This type of wine tends to complement many styles of charcuterie meats as well as olives, so the next time you're snacking on a delicious cheese and meat spread, try a glass of Merlot to go with it.
Now, most seafood you would want to pair with a lighter wine, but grilled fatty fishes like salmon or swordfish would be best if you are insistent on fish with your bottle of Merlot. But where most medium-bodied reds shine are with Lamb, Veal, Pork, and Braised Meats. Also, if you have plates of pasta with veggies or tomato-based sauces, you won't go wrong with this type of wine. You should most certainly save your spicy and sweet foods for a different kind of wine but if you find yourself eating Chestnuts by an open fire this Christmas, make sure you have a glass of Merlot in your hand. And speaking of Christmas, if you are looking for a unique gift for the wine lover in your life, look no further than here!