Merlot is the third variety of black grapes in France after Grenache and Carignan. It constitutes the most common grape variety in the Bordeaux region, but it is also part of the production of red and rosé wines from other areas. The vine stocks of Merlot grapes grow on clay-limestone and cool soils. Its name would come from blackbirds that supposedly particularly appreciate its grains, sweeter and earlier than Carbernet Sauvignon's with which it is often associated.