Getting back to the thread, one of the difficulties with this discussion is trying to compare Merlot-based wines with Pinot-based wines with wines from other grape varieties from other regions.
It's more of an intellectual exercise and/or a question of individual taste, really.
The thread didn't start that way, though; it simply drifted in that direction in part.
Which is okay, as I love thread drift. And it's also okay because it's almost unavoidable to see this happen in a wine-devoted community. It is normal to post a paean to one sort/type/variety/place, and then have defenders of others put up some sort of comparative. Understandable, as wine lovers are or tend to be strong advocates of what they enjoy.
But yes, I agree, any comparison between merlot/cabernet blends and Pinot Noir, or for that matter Syrah/Grenache versus either of them, or elevating Nebbiolo or Sangiovese or Cabernet Franc, is simply an enjoyable exercise without meaning anything.
I was paying tribute to the unique "magic" of Burgundy. On another occasion, I will no doubt do the same with Bordeaux and/or cabernet/merlot. Or Syrah/Grenache. Or Riesling. Or Chenin Blanc. Or Sauvignon Blanc.
But it doesn't make sense to compare the two, at least in the nature of a "better" or a "best".
It's interesting, though, to look at the two regions, Bordeaux and Burgundy, because they are so different...but each has a successful paradigm. And each paradigm also has flaws or weaknesses too. They are almost radically opposite each other in so many ways. Not least in attitude.