Maybe most of my dislike of Merlot is because I don't really buy expensive wines. Back in the 1980s, I heard good things about Cabernet Sauvignon, but it was too pricey for my budget. I went to a resto that had one of those nitrogen wine cabinets that serve wine by the glass. They had a reasonably priced Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile. I tried it and adored it. I started buying that from the SAQ (Société des alcools du Québec, Provincially run liquor stores). I tried various brands. There was one I that had that unpleasant flavour that I associate with Merlot. Sure 'nuf, when I looked carefully at the bottle, it was a blend with some Merlot. I occasionally get some at a party or as a resto's house wine. The last time that happened, I still detected and disliked it. I wouldn't mind trying it again, if someone else is willing to drink the rest, if I still hate it. But, I'm definitely aware that if I know ahead of time that it's a Merlot, I would start out prejudiced against it. Honestly, I have no reason other than flavour to dislike Merlot. I hadn't heard of it before I found out that I dislike it. I haven't heard anyone else say that it isn't nice. Maybe a more expensive Merlot wouldn't have that flavour. But, I don't want to buy a pricey bottle of wine that I might dislike.
