Wine
Top Merlot Wines Under $50 to Try Now
July 31, 2025
Beloved by wine enthusiasts worldwide, Merlot is known for producing smooth wines marked by rich fruit flavors and velvety, approachable textures. It’s a crowd-pleasing and well-known grape, making it an excellent choice for novice drinkers and serious connoisseurs alike—and believe it or not, there are a myriad of high-quality expressions available below the $50 mark.
Whether you're looking for a bottle to enjoy at home or seeking a special gift for a fellow wine lover, choosing a well-made Merlot promises to make a lasting impression. However, knowing a few key things about the variety will go a long way. Our expert team has put together a quick 101 guide to finding the best Merlot for your personal preferences (bottle specific recs included!)
Tips for Choosing Merlot Wines
Region
When seeking out an accessible bottle of Merlot that overdelivers for the price, looking to lesser-known regions is a great place to start. “If you’re hunting for a great Merlot without splurging, start by exploring regions known for both quality and value,” says Victoria Love, Certified Specialist of Wine and Winery Management Specialist at Sommsation. Love describes California’s Dry Creek Valley as a standout region, known for its rich, fruit-driven Merlots with great structure.
Additionally, Love recommends looking to Washington State, especially Walla Walla and Columbia Valley, for another smart pick. “You’ll often find Merlots with vibrant acidity and deep, dark fruit that taste like they cost a lot more than they do,” she says, equally citing that seeking out producers focused on small-lot, estate-grown wines is key. “That extra care really shows in the glass,” she says.
Vintage
Love explains that vintage definitely plays a role in a wine’s final taste profile, though it’s not something to ruminate on at the sub-$50 level. “At this price point, you don’t have to overthink it,” she says. In short, Love summarizes that warmer vintages tend to produce wines with more ripe fruit flavors and softer textures, whereas expressions from cooler climates may lean a bit more savory or herbal. “The great thing is that the producers we work here at Sommsation know how to work with their fruit no matter the year, so you’re still getting quality and character,” she affirms.
Food Pairings & Scenario
Merlot is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a regular go-to for food pairings and an array of occasions alike. “Merlot wines are super food-friendly, thanks to their soft tannins and juicy red fruit,” Love says, citing grilled burgers, roasted chicken, and anything with mushrooms as delicious, expert-approved pairings. “The wines are also perfect with cheesy baked pastas, or even a cozy bowl of chili on a cool night,” she says.
Above all, Love describes Merlot as a wine that fits in just about anywhere. “It’s approachable enough for a casual wine night but has enough depth to shine at a dinner party,” she says. Equally, Love finds that Merlot also makes a fantastic gift, especially when seeking out something classic. “If you're not sure what someone likes, Merlot is usually a safe and satisfying choice,” she says.
Personal Preferences
