Moxie Vino

Pinot Noir vs Merlot: what's the difference?

Pinot Noir is lighter and brighter, with red cherry and a bit of earthiness, while Merlot is fuller and plusher, with plum and chocolate, so pick Pinot for fish, poultry and warm weather and Merlot for pasta, pizza and pork.

Pinot Noir
Merlot

Both are known as the smooth, approachable reds, which is why people mix them up. The difference is weight. Pinot Noir is see-through and lively; Merlot is darker, rounder and a little more filling.

Side by side

Pinot NoirMerlot
Where it's fromBurgundy in France, Oregon, CaliforniaBordeaux in France, Washington, California, Chile
Tastes likeRed cherry, raspberry, cranberry, mushroomPlum, black cherry, cocoa
ColorPale, you can see through itDeep ruby to purple
BodyLight to mediumMedium to full
PriceAbout $15–30About $10–20
Best withSalmon, turkey, duck, mushroomsPizza, lasagna, pork chops, burgers

When to pick Pinot Noir

Pick Pinot Noir when the food is light or the weather is warm and you still want red.

When to pick Merlot

Pick Merlot when you want a rounder, cozier red that still goes down easy.

  • Bogle Merlot

    about $11

    Merlot

    Plush, plummy and easy to like for about eleven dollars.

  • 14 Hands Merlot

    about $11

    Merlot

    Smooth Washington Merlot that works with pretty much any red-sauce dinner.

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Last checked 2026-10-04.