Introduction
Merlot is one of the most popular red wine grape varieties in the world, known for its smoothness, rich flavors, and versatility. In this report, we will explore the top 10 merlot producing countries in the world in 2025, highlighting their production volumes, market trends, and key players in the industry.
1. France
Production Volume and Trends
France is renowned for its high-quality merlot production, with regions like Bordeaux leading the way. In 2025, France continues to be the largest producer of merlot in the world, with an estimated production volume of over 5 million hectoliters.
Key Players
Some of the top merlot producers in France include Chateau Petrus, Chateau Cheval Blanc, and Chateau Lafite Rothschild. These wineries are known for their exceptional merlot wines that command premium prices in the market.
2. Italy
Production Volume and Trends
Italy is another major player in the global merlot market, with regions like Tuscany and Veneto producing high-quality merlot wines. In 2025, Italy’s merlot production is estimated to be around 3.5 million hectoliters.
Key Players
Notable Italian merlot producers include Antinori, Marchesi de Frescobaldi, and Ornellaia. These wineries are known for their innovative winemaking techniques and commitment to producing top-notch merlot wines.
3. United States
Production Volume and Trends
The United States has seen a rise in merlot production in recent years, with regions like California and Washington State leading the way. In 2025, the US is expected to produce around 2.5 million hectoliters of merlot.
Key Players
Some of the top merlot producers in the US include Duckhorn Vineyards, Shafer Vineyards, and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. These wineries are known for their bold and flavorful merlot wines that have gained international acclaim.
4. Chile
Production Volume and Trends
Chile has emerged as a major player in the global merlot market, with regions like Colchagua Valley and Maipo Valley producing top-quality merlot wines. In 2025, Chile’s merlot production is projected to be around 2 million hectoliters.
Key Players
Leading Chilean merlot producers include Concha y Toro, Montes, and Lapostolle. These wineries are known for their sustainable practices and commitment to producing high-quality merlot wines that showcase the unique terroir of Chile.
5. Australia
Production Volume and Trends
Australia has also seen a growth in merlot production, with regions like Margaret River and Coonawarra gaining recognition for their merlot wines. In 2025, Australia is expected to produce around 1.5 million hectoliters of merlot.
Key Players
Top Australian merlot producers include Penfolds, Henschke, and Wynns Coonawarra Estate. These wineries are known for their commitment to quality and innovation, producing merlot wines that stand out in the global market.
6. Argentina
Production Volume and Trends
Argentina has been making a name for itself in the merlot market, with regions like Mendoza and San Juan producing excellent merlot wines. In 2025, Argentina is projected to produce around 1 million hectoliters of merlot.
Key Players
Leading Argentine merlot producers include Catena Zapata, Bodega Norton, and Achaval-Ferrer. These wineries are known for their commitment to sustainable practices and producing high-quality merlot wines that reflect the unique characteristics of Argentina’s terroir.
7. South Africa
Production Volume and Trends
South Africa has also been increasing its merlot production, with regions like Stellenbosch and Paarl gaining recognition for their merlot wines. In 2025, South Africa is expected to produce around 800,000 hectoliters of merlot.
Key Players
Top South African merlot producers include Kanonkop, Warwick Estate, and Rustenberg. These wineries are known for their commitment to quality and producing merlot wines that showcase the diversity of South Africa’s wine regions.
8. Spain
Production Volume and Trends
Spain has a long history of winemaking, and regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero are known for their merlot production. In 2025, Spain is estimated to produce around 700,000 hectoliters of merlot.
Key Players
Notable Spanish merlot producers include Marques de Riscal, Vega Sicilia, and Bodegas Protos. These wineries are known for their traditional winemaking methods and producing merlot wines that showcase Spain’s rich winemaking heritage.
9. New Zealand
Production Volume and Trends
New Zealand has been gaining recognition for its merlot production, with regions like Hawke’s Bay and Waiheke Island producing high-quality merlot wines. In 2025, New Zealand is expected to produce around 500,000 hectoliters of merlot.
Key Players
Leading New Zealand merlot producers include Te Mata Estate, Stonyridge Vineyard, and Craggy Range. These wineries are known for their commitment to sustainability and producing merlot wines that reflect the unique terroir of New Zealand.
10. Romania
Production Volume and Trends
Romania has been expanding its merlot production, with regions like Dealu Mare and Murfatlar gaining recognition for their merlot wines. In 2025, Romania is projected to produce around 300,000 hectoliters of merlot.
Key Players
Notable Romanian merlot producers include Crama Atelier, Prince Stirbey, and Crama Basilescu. These wineries are known for their dedication to quality and producing merlot wines that showcase Romania’s winemaking potential.
Overall, the global merlot market continues to thrive in 2025, with these top 10 producing countries leading the way in quality production and innovation. As consumer demand for merlot wines continues to grow, these countries are well-positioned to meet the needs of wine enthusiasts around the world.
