Best Merlot Red Wine of 2026

The Hardys Cabernet Merlot is a delightful medium-bodied wine, showcasing rich flavours of blackcurrant and dark cherry. This unique blend is further enhanced by a subtle oak sweetness, making it a perfect pairing for spicy beef dishes or soft cheeses. With an alcohol content that may vary between 11% and 13.5% by volume, you can enjoy this wine in various settings. Storing it in a cool, dry place ensures its flavours remain intact, allowing you to indulge in its complex taste whenever you desire.

The McGuigan Merlot is a soft and flavoursome red wine that delights with its ripe fruit flavours of raspberry, cherry, and plum. These fruity notes are beautifully complemented by subtle oak characters, such as caramel and vanilla, enhancing its overall appeal. With its velvety texture, this Merlot pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, especially red meat, pork, and chicken, making it a versatile choice for your meals. Enjoying this wine can elevate your dining experience, allowing you to savour its rich flavour profile.

The Durbanville Hills Lighthouse Merlot is a full-bodied red wine from Cape Town that offers a rich tasting experience. Its aromas of red fruit, plums, with subtle hints of mint, vanilla, and pencil shavings, provide a delightful scent that can enhance your wine enjoyment. The wine's elegant flavours of ripe red fruit deliver a smooth and satisfying taste, perfect for those who appreciate depth in their wine. Additionally, the lingering leathery aftertaste adds complexity, making it an excellent choice to savour with hearty meals.

Barefoot Merlot is an indulgent Californian red wine that boasts tempting flavours of juicy blackberry, tart raspberry, and rich chocolate, offering a silky-smooth finish. This smooth and bold wine is one of the most popular grape varieties, making it an easy-drinking option for any occasion. You can enjoy it with a variety of foods, including beef, poultry, and even desserts, enhancing your dining experience. Additionally, this award-winning red wine has received a Gold Medal at the American Fine Wine Competition in 2021, highlighting its exceptional flavour and quality.

The Jack Rabbit Merlot offers a deep purple and red hue, making it visually appealing. Its nose features enticing aromas of dark plums, blackberry jam, and a hint of oak, which can enhance your sensory experience. On the palate, you’ll enjoy flavours of blackberry, mulberry, and plums, delivering a smooth finish that is perfect for relaxing evenings. This wine pairs wonderfully with rich beef stews or lasagne, making it an ideal choice for your next dinner party or cosy meal at home.

Hardys Crest Red Wine offers an elegant and well-balanced experience, making it a delightful choice for your dining table. With flavours of dark cherry and a soft, silky finish, it enhances any meal. The rich aromas of ripe plum and dark berries, complemented by hints of cherry and raspberry, create a sensory delight. This wine pairs beautifully with rich beef dishes, ensuring a satisfying meal. Sourced from quality vineyards in South Eastern Australia, it promises a wine that is both rich in body and flavour.

The Laithwaites Merlot Selection offers a hand-picked case of six mixed bottles, ideal for wine enthusiasts who appreciate velvety reds. Each bottle bursts with succulent plum and damson flavours, ensuring a delightful drinking experience. You’ll enjoy a diverse selection from renowned regions like Chile, Australia, and France, all at great value. With this assortment, you can explore the smooth, juicy characteristics of Merlot without breaking the bank, making it a perfect choice for both casual sipping and special occasions.