Updated May 2026
Merlot and Malbec are grape words, not a ranking. Both sit under 27 CFR Part 4 as red table wine when that is the class. Typical US table lots sit near 12–14%. A 5-ounce glass at 12% is one NIAAA drink. Color and “body” are palate talk. No 2026 crown.
Related: Cabernet vs Pinot, pasta red, red wine alternatives.
Grape vs class
| Language | 5 oz drinks |
|---|---|
| Merlot / Malbec | Read the neck |
| Typical US table | 1.00 at 12% |
| Better grape | — |
| Best of the two | — |
Count the glass. Pour math: wine math.
Sources
- 27 CFR Part 4. Typical table 12–14%.
- NIAAA December 2025.