Hailing from Cariñena, neighbour to Rioja, in northeast Spain, picked at peak of ripeness, it's bursting with silky ripe cherry and summer berry fruit. One of the oldest wine regions of Spain, Cariñena lies just southeast of Rioja, a land of ancient low-yield vines. Most of its vineyards nurture native varieties Garnacha, but this red shows its winemakers can excel equally well with international stars, including Merlot. This grape ripens to perfection in the arid rocky soils and hot sunshine. Mirlo Merlot is a smooth, full-of-fruit red for easy sipping. Served at a cool room temperature, it's a great party wine, and tasty with chicken, veggie kebabs or frittata.

Ludovic Roussillon is one of the top viticulteurs in Bordeaux’s Entre-Deux-Mers. He knows how to coax the very best out of his soils to get the most flavour in his grapes. Work hard in the vineyard and the wine almost makes itself, he says. We’ve worked with Ludovic for a number of years, enjoying both his red and his white from Château Le Coin. This is another wine from his vineyards – mostly Merlot, with a little Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon – all vinified to bring out the fruit's richness, supported by sleek tannins. Rethink Bordeaux with this supple, generous, rounded red. It’s already drinking really well, with or without food. Roast beef, full flavoured pasta dishes, charcuterie, cheese – this wine is very versatile.