AbstractBackgroundScion physiology and grape quality are impacted by rootstock choice. There is little available information about the effects of rootstock on wine volatile composition, particularly when comparing grafted with own‐rooted grapevines. This field trial was aimed at studying the influence of rootstock choice on volatile composition of Merlot wines.ResultsWines made from grapes harvested from own‐rooted grapevines had the lowest content of (E)‐3‐hexenol, diethyl succinate and total ethyl esters and the highest content of 1‐pentanol, 1‐hexanol, (Z)‐3‐hexenol, diethyl malate and acetovanillone. Rootstocks such as 99R and 140Ru led to a higher content of total ethyl esters in wines followed by 110R, 1103P and Gravesac. According to odor activity values, Merlot wines were characterized by roses, sweat, cheese and banana aromas.ConclusionsThis work provides valuable information about the potential impact of rootstocks on wine volatile composition for Merlot wines. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry