We all know that Merlot gets a bad rap, but we’re here to set the record straight with our selection of top rated Merlot wines – Merlot is amazing!
Not only is it one of the most popular red wines in the world, but it also happens to be incredibly versatile and easy to drink.
Some people look at Merlot as just a good blending grape blended to make high quality Cabernet Sauvignon, but Merlot sales are on the rise in many parts of the world.
If you’re in search of merlot wine recommendations, particularly for delicious California Merlots under $75, look no further!
We’ve carefully compiled and ranked a list of 31 good inexpensive Merlots from California, all under $75.00. So, whether you’re planning a special dinner party or just stocking your wine cellar, these Merlots are sure to please. At the end of this list, you can find our personal top three.
The 31 Best California Merlots under $75.00
Let’s take a look at the list!
1 – Paradigm Merlot (Oakville)
Paradigm is a winery located in Oakville owned by Ren and Marylyn Harris. Paradigm wines have been made by winemaker Heidi Barrett since their initial vintage and are a tremendous value compared to other Napa wines. They also offer the best wine tasting experience in the entire Napa Valley.
Paradigm Merlot is an great wine, with fruity aromas of black cherry, raspberry, and spice.
Tasting Notes: On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured with flavors of dark ripe fruit, mocha, and the influence of 22 months in new French oak barrels. It has firm tannins and a long finish.
This wine contains 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and has nice acidity. The Paradigm Merlot is the best merlot wine on this list. We are wineclub members at Paradigm and this is one of the wines that we make sure to have at home.
If you want to hear my interview with Paradigm Winery’s director of sales and hospitality, Mary Ann Turrentine talk about what it’s like working with the great Heidi Barrett.
2 – Rombauer Merlot
Rombauer Vineyards is one of the most respected producers of Napa Valley Merlot in California. This is an approachable, rich merlot and a very good red wine for the price.
Tasting Notes: The Rombauer Merlot is a classic example of the grape, with rich aromas of blackberry, ripe plum, and spice.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and velvety, with ripe tannins, and flavors of dark cherry and cocoa. It’s well-balanced and has a long, smooth finish.
A wine enthusiast friend of mine who collects fine wines says the only Merlot wine he drinks is Rombauer Merlot. He says it’s because it has an endless number of good food pairings. It has to be one of the best merlots I have had.
Check out my interview with Rombauer Vineyards VP of Winemaking and Viticulture Richie Allen and hear him talk about what makes Rombauer wines so special.
3 – Duckhorn Merlot is a beautifully crafted wine reminiscent of a good French Merlot. I have a soft spot for this Merlot because my wife and I got engaged at Duckhorn with a bottle of the 2017 Duckhorn Three Palms Merlot.
Tasting Notes: The wine has aromas of black cherry, chocolate, candied violets, and vanilla.
On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and silky, with flavors of ripe fruit flavors including blackberry and plum, with a hint of mocha. It has balanced acidity and a long, elegant finish
Don’t forget to try the Decoy merlot which is part of the Duckhorn Portfolio and a very good wine as well.
4 – Peter Franus Merlot
The newest wine to this list is another Merlot that should have made the original list. The Peter Franus Merlot is not only new to this list but has easily made it into the top 5 this year. At only $50.00 per bottle, it may be the best value on the entire list.
Tasting Notes: The Peter Franus Merlot offers lots of black fruit on the nose with some subtle leather and oaky notes.
On the palate, you will find ripe blueberry, plum, and blackberry mixed with a small amount of chocolate.
5 – Peju Winery Merlot
Peju is a family-owned winery located in Rutherford, CA. The Peju Merlot is a delicious red wine made from fine merlot grapes. This is one of the best merlots made in California and a great value too!
Tasting Notes: This medium bodied wine has aromas of dark fruit, raspberry, and spice.
On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and fruit-forward, with soft tannins and flavors of black cherries, plum, and some vanilla. It has good acidity and a long finish.
6 – Hourglass Blueline Estate Merlot
Hourglass is not as well-known as some of the others on this list, but their wines are amazing! Unfortunately, Hourglass suffered significant wildfire damage and was closed to visitors for a while.
They have since re-opened and are welcoming guests to taste their wine for $125, but the tasting fee can be waived with a wine purchase of three bottles of wine. Hourglass is Located in the Stags Leap District.
Tasting Notes: The Hourglass Merlot is a beautifully crafted fleshier wine, with aromas of blackberry, cassis, and spice.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured due to being blended with other wine grapes including Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, with black fruit flavors and some oak notes from spending 17 months in French Oak Barrels. It has firm tannins and a long finish.
This is one of my favorite Merlot wines because of the intensity of the fruit flavors that come from Merlot grown in this area of the valley.
7 – Keenan Mailbox Vineyard Reserve Merlot
Keenan is located in the Spring Mountain District of Napa. The Keenan Merlot is an excellent Napa Valley Merlot and a great representation of the Merlot grape.
Tasting Notes: Aromas of dark fruit, plum, and some red fruit aromas. On the palate, it’s a full-bodied wine with velvety tannins, and flavors of dark fruits and cocoa. It’s well-balanced and has a long finish.
8 – Frog’s Leap Merlot
Frog’s Leap is a beautiful winery located in Rutherford, CA that gets its name because the property used to be a frog farm that raised frogs for the restaurant business. On a recent trip to Napa, I went to Frog’s Leap and the service was terrific but the wines were even better!
Tasting Notes: The Frog’s Leap Merlot is an excellent dry wine, with aromas of black fruits, and spiced plum. On the palate, it’s a full-bodied wine with supple tannins and flavors of dark fruits and cocoa. It’s well-balanced and has a long finish.
If you want to hear my discussion with Brianna Pickens, Assistant Tasting Room Manager at Frog’s Leap talk about the dos and dont’s of wine tasting, click here.
9 – Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot
Pride Mountain Vineyards is a premier producer of red wines including popular varieties like Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and a Reserve Claret which you don’t see at other wineries.
Tasting Notes: The Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot offers a complex nose that includes notes of plumb, cherry, dried herbs, and a bit of oak.
On the palate, this bold merlot wine offers plenty of black fruits, some milk chocolate, and a smooth finish.
10 – O’ Shaughnessy Merlot
O’Shaughnessy is a family-owned winery located in the hills above St. Helena, CA, one of my favorite wine regions. I dream of having a home in St. Helena one day and wouldn’t mind having a few bottles of this excellent merlot in my cellar.
Tasting Notes: The O’Shaughnessy Merlot is a beautiful red wine, with aromas of blackberry, cassis, and leather.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured, with silky tannins and flavors of dark fruits and oak.
This is in my top 5 best merlot wines so if you haven’t had it yet, you need to get some!
11 – Regusci Merlot
Regusci has been farmed by the same family for five generations since they came over from Italy where they make some of the best old-world wines. Regusci is located in Stags Leap District, right off the famous Silverado Trail and makes some great wines.
Tasting Notes: The Regusci Merlot is one of the best Merlot wines I have tried, with aromas of black cherry, cigar and raspberry. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured with flavors of ripe dark fruits and chocolate with a hint of black pepper. It has firm tannins and a long finish.
12 – PlumpJack Merlot
PlumpJack is located in the Oakville region of Napa and is known for its Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Tasting Notes: The 2016 PlumpJack Merlot is an excellent red wine, with aromas of black cherry, raspberry, and other red fruit.
On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and fruit-forward, with dark berry flavors of plum, and hints of chocolate, and vanilla.
For the money, this is one of the best merlot wines made in California in my opinion and is one of the best wines for beginners who want to experience Merlot for the first time.
13 – Charles Krug Merlot
Charles Krug is a family-owned winery located in St. Helena, CA. Charles Krug is famous for being one of the oldest wineries in the Napa Valley and it’s still owned by the Mondavi Family.
Tasting Notes: The Charles Krug Merlot is a nice wine, with aromas of blueberry, blackberry, plum, and some baking spice.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and velvety with flavors of black fruits, black cherry, cherry, and cocoa. It’s well-balanced and has a long finish.
14 – Switch Back Ridge Peterson Family Vineyard Merlot
Switch Back Ridge Merlot is new to this year’s list and for good reason. Switchback Ridge is a beautiful family-owned winery that used to be a thriving plumb farm. Switch Back Ridge sources all of its fruit from the renowned Peterson Family Vineyard in Calistoga.
Tasting Notes: The Switch Back Ridge Merlot is a top-notch merlot that truly exemplifies what the grape variety can do. With aromas of red fruits like raspberry, and a hint of vanilla on the nose.
On the palate, it offers balanced acidity and velvety tannins. Flavors of red fruits, cherry, and raspberry are obvious. This wine is well-balanced and has one of the longest finishes of any merlot on this list.
15 – Clos Du Val Merlot
Clos Du Val is located in Stags Leap District, in Napa right off the famous Silverado Trail. Clos Du Val is known for its red wines inspired by the Bordeaux region in France. They make some of my favorite wines including an amazing Estate Cabernet Franc.
Tasting Notes: The Clos Du Val Merlot is a beautiful merlot wine, with aromas of blackberry, cassis, and some baking spice.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured, with flavors of red fruits, raspberry, clove, and oak. It has firm tannins and a fresh finish.
16 – Stags Leap Wine Cellars Merlot
Stags Leap Wine Cellars is a renowned producer of Cabernet Sauvignon, but their approachable Merlot is also excellent. If you were to search the internet for “Merlot Brands California” there is no doubt you will find this delicious Merlot.
Tasting Notes: The Stags Leap Wine Cellars Merlot is a complex wine, with aromas of blackberry, cassis, spice, and some chocolate notes.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured, with flavors of dark fruits and oak. It has firm tannins and a long, lingering finish. Like a lot of the best Merlot wines, this one pairs well with grilled meats.
17 – Paloma Merlot
Paloma is another new wine to this years list but probable should have been on the list before. This winery sits on top of the world famous Spring Mountain known for producing some of the best wine in the world.
Tasting Notes: The Paloma Merlot barely makes the list due to its $72.00 price tag but it’s well worth the price.
On the palate, this special wine offers flavors of blackberry and black cherry with earthy notes. This wine is well-balanced with a complez floral finish.
18 – Grgich Hills Estate Merlot
Grgich Hills Estate is a historical winery located in Rutherford, CA that is known for its red wines and famous Chardonnay.
Proprietor, Mike Grgich recently turned 100 years old and his story is one of the reasons I got into wine in the first place.
Tasting Notes: The Grgich Hills Estate Merlot is an amazing wine reminiscent of the wines made in the Bordeaux region in France.
This Merlot has distinct aromas of bright cherry and raspberry. On the palate, this wine is full-bodied and beautifully structured, with flavors of dark fruits, red cherry, plum, cedar, and oak. It has medium tannins and a long finish.
19 – Trefethen Merlot
Trefethen is a family-owned winery located in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, CA. Trefethen is famous for its sustainable farming, thoughtful winemaking techniques, and award winning hospitality.
Tasting Notes: The Trefethen Merlot is a complex wine made from excellent Merlot Grapes, with aromas of blackberry and cassis.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured, with flavors of dark fruits and French oak. It has firm tannins, balanced acidity, and a nice finish.
20 – Rutherford Hill Merlot
Rutherford Hill is a winery located in Rutherford, CA. The Rutherford AVA is home to some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon made in the world but also produces a complex merlot wine.
Tasting Notes: The Rutherford Hill Merlot is an excellent wine, with strong aromas of blackberry, red plum, strawberry, and cherry. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and earthy, with flavors of dark fruits, sweet tobacco, and cocoa. This is the perfect wine to have with red meat.
21 – Whitehall Lane Merlot
Whitehall Lane is a family-owned winery located in the famous Stags Leap District, in Napa, CA.
Tasting Notes: The Whitehall Lane Merlot is a fresh-tasting Merlot wine, with aromas of blueberries, black cherry, raspberry, and some spice.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured, with flavors of black currant, bramble berry, and a touch of oak. It has firm tannins and a very long finish.
22 – Textbook Merlot
Textbook is another winery located in Rutherford, CA. At $23 per bottle, some might assume this is a starter wine but trust me, it’s nice and complex.
Tasting Notes: The Textbook Merlot wine is an excellent example of what Merlot can become, with aromas of blueberry, plum, cherry, and spice.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and velvety, with flavors of dark fruits, leather, and cocoa. It’s well-balanced with soft tannins.
23 – Provenance Merlot
Provenance is a winery located in Rutherford, in the Napa Valley. Provenance makes a great merlot that really shows off how great the grape can be.
Tasting Notes: The 2017 Provenance Merlot is an excellent wine, with aromas of bing cherry, and black current. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and fruit-forward, with flavors of ripe blackberry, black plum, chocolate, leather, and vanilla.
24 – Oberon Merlot
Oberon is a family-owned winery located in Rutherford, Napa Valley.
Tasting Notes: The Oberon Merlot wine, has silky texture, aromas of blackberry, pepper, smoke, and some vanilla. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and velvety, with flavors of dark fruits and cocoa. It has balanced acidity and has a nice long finish
25 – Raymond Vineyards Reserve Selection Merlot
Raymond Vineyards is located in St. Helena, CA off the beautiful Zinfandel Lane. This picturesque winery offers tastings in their red room which is a must for any wine tasting fan.
Tasting Notes: The Raymond Reserve Selection Merlot is an excellent wine that really brings out the characteristics of the Merlot grape, with aromas of blackberry, plum, licorice, and some baking spice.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and velvety, with flavors of dark fruits and cocoa. It’s well-balanced and has a long finish.
26 – Wente Vineyards Sandstone Merlot
Wente Vineyards has been family-owned since 1883 and is certified sustainable. The winery located in Livermore, California.
Tasting Notes: The Wente Vineyards Sandstone Merlot is an excellent wine, with aromas of blackberry, plum, and spice. On the palate, it’s full-bodied with velvety tannins, and dark fruit flavors and dark chocolate. It’s well-balanced and has a long finish.
Some wine drinkers refer to this wine as “the best cheap Merlot” but in a blind tasting, this wine performed much better than its price point. People are starting to see that Livermore is establishing itself as one of the better wine regions in California.
27 – Flora Springs Merlot
Flora Springs is a family-owned winery located in St. Helena, Napa Valley. The Flora Springs Merlot is great for wine drinkers who dont usually drink merlot.
Tasting Notes: The Flora Springs Merlot is a complex wine, with aromas of soft cherry, plum, and wilted roses. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and velvety with flavors of dark fruits, cherry pie, and cinnamon.
28 – Hall Merlot
Hall is a family-owned winery located in St. Helena, Napa Valley. Hall is famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon which is its best wine.
It’s also known for the giant silver bunny that dons the front of the property in St. Helena. Their merlot is quite nice and reminiscent of wines from warm climates.
Tasting Notes: The Hall Merlot is an excellent wine, with aromas of mocha, plum, and tobacco.
On the palate, it’s full-bodied and smooth with flavors of dark fruits, black cherry, blackcurrant, and cocoa. It’s well-balanced and has a nice long finish.
29 – Cakebread Merlot
Cakebread is another family-owned winery located in Rutherford, CA established by Napa Valley legend Jack Cakebread. Cakebread is known for their complex red wines and luscious Chardonnay. This wine is a good example of what Merlot Grapes can do.
Tasting Notes: The Cakebread Merlot is a nice Merlot, with aromas of black cherry, red fruits, and some spice.
On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and fruit-forward, with flavors of juicy black fruits, plum, chocolate, leather, and vanilla.
30 – Silverado Vineyards Mt. George Vineyard Merlot
Silverado Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in the Stags Leap District in Napa, CA.
Tasting Notes: The Silverado Merlot is a complex wine, with aromas of blackberry, plum, and spice. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and structured, and earthy, with red fruit flavors, flavors of dark fruits and some oak. It has firm tannins and a long finish.
31 – Chappellet Merlot
Chappellet is located in St. Helena, CA and famous for their award-winning Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon. This merlot is popular with wine lovers all over the world.
Tasting Notes: The Chappellet Merlot is a fine wine, with aromas of dark fruit and some raspberry aromas.
On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and fruit-forward, with flavors of plum, red fruit, chocolate, and vanilla. It has balanced acidity and a long finish.
Our Picks for Best California Merlots Under $75.00
#3 Best California Merlot Under $75.00 – Clos Du Val Merlot
The Clos du Val Merlot stands out as our #3 pick for the best California Merlots under $75.00, a distinction it earns through its exceptional balance of quality and value.
This wine showcases the quintessential characteristics of a top-tier Merlot, with a harmonious blend of rich fruit flavors and a velvety texture that speaks to its meticulous winemaking process. Its robust profile, featuring notes of dark berries, subtle oak, and a hint of spice, makes it a versatile choice for a variety of pairings.
The positive reviews everywhere highlight its consistent quality and approachable price point, making it not just a delightful indulgence for Merlot enthusiasts but also an accessible choice for those exploring the varietal.
The Clos du Val Merlot’s ability to deliver a premium wine experience without an exorbitant price tag solidifies its position as a top contender in our list of the best California Merlots under $75.00.
#2 Best California Merlot Under $75.00 – Rombauer Merlot
Rombauer Vineyards St. Helena Merlot stands proudly at #2 on our list of the best California Merlots under $75.00, a testament to its exceptional quality and value.
This Merlot, recognized among the Top 25 Californian Merlot wines, is celebrated for its rich, velvety texture and complex flavor profile that balances fruit, tannins, and oak beautifully.
Its inclusion in such a prestigious list underscores its status as a top-tier wine, offering a luxurious tasting experience without an extravagant price tag. The 2019 vintage, in particular, has garnered attention for its exquisite blend of depth and accessibility, making it a favorite among both connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts.”
#1 Best California Merlot Under $75.00 – Paradigm Merlot (Oakville)
The Paradigm Merlot stands proudly at the top of our list of the 31 best California Merlots under $75.00, and for good reason. This exceptional wine, they call the “Cabernet Drinkers Merlot”, has been recognized in Vivino’s 2019 Wine Style Awards, highlighting its excellence among Californian Merlots.
Its distinct character, which beautifully encapsulates the rich and diverse terroir of Oakville, California, offers a harmonious balance of flavor, aroma, and texture.
The Paradigm Merlot, made by world famous winemaker Heidi Barrett is not just a testament to the winemaking prowess of the region, but also an embodiment of quality and value, making it an undeniable choice for our number one spot.
Final Thoughts
Creating this list of the best inexpensive Merlots, particularly those from California, was a challenging yet rewarding task, given the abundance of quality options available.
Many wines didn’t make this list that probably should have so we will continue to expand the list to accommodate all those great wines.
Of course, this list also doesn’t touch on the amazing Merlot being made in France or other parts of the world so we may need to make a new list in the future.
