This velvety, dense red from the Prisoner Wine Co. is labelled “merlot” but that’s just 77-per-cent of the story; 23-per-cent of the mix comes from a combination of malbec and syrah, presumably to pump up the fruit and firm up backbone, respectively. Smart. It’s luscious and chunky, with dark fruit and dark chocolate assisted by toasted spices and smoky oak. Well-structured. Serve it with rich red-meat dishes. Available in Ontario at the price below, various prices in Alberta, $36 in Quebec, $59.99 in Nova Scotia.
- Year: 2014
- Region: Napa Valley
- Varietal: Red blend
- Food pairing: Rich red-meat dishes
- Price: $39.95