The Merlot finish is more like a deep cherry. We did notice that the backing of the bookcase (against wall) is more a merlot finish - it appears when the clear stain was added it changed the color to the cherry look. We still love the bed and followed the dark bed, light wall color schema. Also, we used a 10" inch mattress (no box spring) and it still is below the level of the bookcase. You could probably use a bunkie board and depending on your linens still not cover the bookcase. Most importantly, our son loves his bed!