Originating in France as a typical wine grape, the blue-black fruits of Grape ‘Merlot’ are highly regarded as the best claret grape around. Produces delicious plum notes in wine, or a deep red juice when sweetened appropriately. Grow under cover in the majority of the UK, to protect from frosts and keep crops thriving. Grape ‘Merlot’ is self-fertile but will only ripen deep into the season. Height of cordon trained vine: 1.8m (6′). Spread of cordon trained vine: 1.5m (5′). Untrained plants may reach up to 8m (26′).
Growing Information
When growing grape vines choose a sunny position in any well drained soil. A south facing position against a wall is ideal. Grape vines require sturdy support for their twining stems. Before planting, prepare a framework of wires stretched horizontally between two sturdy 1.8m (6’) posts or attached to a warm wall. Prior to planting, incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost into the soil. Plant grape vines against the wire supports, allowing a distance of 2m (6’) between plants. After planting, reduce the newly planted grape vine back to height of the lowest support wire, and cut back any side shoots to one bud, before tying the main stem in to the supporting wires.
