Which flavor is less likely to be associated with Merlot wine?

Merlot is often characterized by its rich fruit flavors, with common descriptors including cherry, chocolate, and blackberry. These flavors reflect the grape's profile, which typically exhibits a plush, fruity character that can also lend itself to notes of cocoa and mocha from oak aging.

In contrast, green bell pepper is a flavor more commonly associated with certain varietals, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, which can display herbaceous and vegetal characteristics due to higher levels of pyrazines. While Merlot can sometimes have a mild herbal quality, it is far less likely to exhibit the distinct green bell pepper flavor. Thus, this flavor is not typically linked with Merlot, making it the least likely option associated with this varietal.