Merlot is plum rich and bursting with blackcurrant, damson and blackberry tones. It’s a hugely popular, juicy and easiest drinking red wine. Chile offers good value for money, as does Australia, with Bordeaux making the world’s top styles. Light in colour and tannin, but plump and rich. It is nipping at the heels of Shiraz as Australia's No. 1 favourite red variety. Merlot is often blended with Cabernet (Cabernet Merlot and is the classic blend of Margaret River. Pure Merlots are becoming more popular, especially those from South Australia's Coonawarra and Eden Valley regions. Recommended: Yelverton Reserve, Viña Tarapacá Merlot 2014