What's the difference between "claret" and "Meritage"?
Hello there! I'm Dr. Vinifera, but you can call me Vinny. Ask me your toughest wine questions, from the fine points of etiquette to the science of winemaking. And don't worry, I'm no wine snob—you can also ask me those "dumb questions" you're too embarrased to ask your wine geek friends! I hope you find my answers educational, empowering and even amusing. And don't forget to check out my most asked questions and my full archives for all my Q&A classics.
Dear Dr. Vinny,
What is the difference between "Claret" and "Meritage"?
—Mark M., Atlanta
Dear Mark,
"Claret" is an old English term for red Bordeaux, but these days it has more of a generic "red wine" connotation. "Meritage" (which rhymes with "heritage," by the way) is a trademarked name for registered American wines that are blended from Bordeaux grape varieties. Meritage wines can be either red or white.
—Dr. Vinny
