Is Moderato Wine  Any Good?

What To Expect

According to Moderato, this alcohol-free red wine combines Merlot and Tannat grapes to create a fuller-bodied profile than many alcohol-free reds. The producer highlights notes of blackberry, plum and subtle spice, alongside a dry finish and gentle tannin structure.

While I haven’t yet had the opportunity to try this wine myself, the combination of Merlot and Tannat is certainly interesting. Merlot typically contributes soft fruit and smoothness, while Tannat is known for bringing tannins and structure—two characteristics that can be difficult to retain in alcohol-free red wine.

Why It Stands Out

One of the biggest challenges with alcohol-free red wine is maintaining body and complexity after the alcohol is removed. Moderato appears to tackle this by using traditional French winemaking methods before carefully dealcoholising the finished wine.

The use of Tannat is particularly noteworthy, as the grape naturally provides tannins and texture that can help create a more authentic red wine experience.

Should You Buy It?

If you’re looking for a premium, award-winning French alcohol-free red wine with a focus on structure rather than sweetness, Moderato Merlot-Tannat looks like one of the more interesting options currently available.

I haven’t personally tasted it yet, so I can’t include it in my rankings or score it against other alcohol-free red wines. However, based on the winemaking approach, grape selection and early feedback from drinkers, it’s certainly a bottle I’d be keen to try in the future.

FAQs

What is Moderato Merlot-Tannat?

Moderato Merlot-Tannat is a French de-alcoholised red wine made from a blend of Merlot and Tannat grapes. It contains up to 0.5% ABV and is designed to offer a more structured alcohol-free red wine experience.

Does Moderato Merlot-Tannat contain alcohol?

Yes. Like many alcohol-free wines, it contains up to 0.5% ABV. This is a very small amount of alcohol but means it is technically not completely alcohol-free.

What does Moderato Merlot-Tannat taste like?

According to the producer, the wine offers notes of blackberry, plum and gentle spice with a dry finish and soft tannins. The inclusion of Tannat grapes is intended to provide additional structure and body.

Is Moderato Merlot-Tannat sweet?

No. Moderato positions this wine as a more sophisticated and balanced red wine alternative, focusing on dryness and structure rather than sweetness.

What food pairs well with Moderato Merlot-Tannat?

This style of alcohol-free red wine pairs well with roast meats, pasta dishes, mushroom-based meals, hard cheeses and hearty vegetarian dishes.

Is Moderato Merlot-Tannat vegan?

Yes. The wine is suitable for vegans.

Is Moderato Merlot-Tannat gluten-free?

Yes. Like most wines, it is naturally gluten-free.

Where can I buy Moderato Merlot-Tannat in the UK?

Moderato Merlot-Tannat is available from specialist alcohol-free retailers including Wise Bartender and selected online alcohol-free wine stores.

How many calories does Moderato Merlot-Tannat contain?

The wine contains approximately 14 calories per 100ml, making it significantly lower in calories than traditional red wine.

Has MyDryBar reviewed Moderato Merlot-Tannat?

Not yet. While the wine looks promising based on its grape blend and winemaking approach, it has not yet received an official MyDryBar review score.

Final Thoughts

Moderato Cuvée Révolutionnaire Merlot-Tannat is one of the more intriguing alcohol-free red wines currently available. While many alcohol-free reds struggle to replicate the structure and depth of traditional wine, Moderato’s use of Merlot and Tannat suggests a focus on body, tannins and balance rather than sweetness.

The French winemaking heritage, low calorie count and premium positioning make it a bottle that will likely appeal to regular wine drinkers looking to reduce their alcohol intake without abandoning the ritual of enjoying red wine alongside food.

Although I haven’t personally tasted this wine yet, the combination of grape varieties and the positive reputation of the Moderato range mean it is firmly on my shortlist for a future review.

If you’re looking for a premium alcohol-free red wine that prioritises authenticity over sweetness, Moderato Merlot-Tannat is certainly worth considering.