5 Best Merlots Under £20 (That Actually Deliver)
If you're looking to find merlot wine deals or simply the best Merlot under £20, we've got you covered. Whether you’re a Merlot connoisseur or a newcomer to this smooth red wine, we’ve handpicked five fantastic options that overdeliver on flavour, style, and character. Take a look at our top picks for affordable Merlots below.
1. Siegel, Handpicked Reserva Merlot 2022, £13.00
Region: Colchagua Valley, Chile
Tasting Notes: Blackcurrants, blueberries, black cherries, leather, and a hint of roast coffee.
Why We Love It: This Chilean Merlot brings together the rich fruitiness of blackcurrants, blueberries, and black cherries with the smooth tannins and well-balanced acidity typical of the region. The subtle leather and roast coffee notes add complexity, but it’s the vibrant fruit that takes center stage.
Perfect for those who enjoy a fruit-forward wine with a touch of depth.
2. Astral de Chateau Puybarbe 2020, £14.50
Region: Bordeaux, France
Tasting Notes: Bramble, cassis, mint, vanilla, spice, and soft tannins.
Why We Love It: A Bordeaux-style Merlot, this wine blends Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot, creating a delicious complexity. Ripe bramble and cassis aromas greet you, followed by a touch of mint, vanilla, and spice from the oak aging. Full-bodied with soft acidity, it’s a wine that evolves beautifully when decanted.
An ideal choice for those who appreciate complexity and depth in a Merlot.
3. Solara Natural Red 2023, £14.50
Region: Panciu, Romania
Tasting Notes: Bramble fruit, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, smooth tannins.
Why We Love It: A natural Merlot blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, this Romanian wine is all about the pure, clean fruit. Raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry dominate the palate, balanced by smooth tannins and refreshing acidity. It’s juicy, complex, and incredibly well-priced.
Perfect for natural wine enthusiasts looking for a fruity, accessible Merlot.
4. Peculiar Mr Pat Merlot 2024 £10.50
Region: South East Australia
Tasting Notes: Red cherry, raspberry, plum, pepper spice, soft tannins.
Why We Love It: This Australian Merlot is a no-nonsense, easy-drinking wine that’s bright, ripe, and full of juicy red fruit. Expect fresh red cherries, raspberries, and plums, with a touch of pepper spice on the finish. Soft tannins make it ideal for casual meals like a mid-week pizza or BBQ.
A perfect budget-friendly choice for those who want a simple, enjoyable Merlot.
5. Vila Jardim Selection Red 2020 £12.00
Region: Tejo, Portugal
Tasting Notes: Rich fruit, spice, oak, soft tannins.
Why We Love It: This Portuguese Merlot is a unique blend with a Mediterranean twist, combining Syrah and Touriga Nacional with Merlot. The result is a rich, spicy wine with textured oak influence and soft tannins. The finish is long and rounded, making it a great choice for BBQs or hearty meals.
A superb value-for-money wine that showcases the beauty of Mediterranean blends.
Bonus Tip: Try Before You Commit
Can’t decide? Our wine subscription boxes often feature great-value Merlots– try them as part of a curated selection tailored to your taste.
Explore our Merlot selection online or join the Reserve Wine Club to get handpicked bottles delivered every month.
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