David Colussi

Opus One 2005, Napa Valley

Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Napa Valley

Firestone Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Santa Ynez Valley

Firestone Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Ynez Valley 2010 ($19.95; score 90)

Santa Barbara County’s first estate winery, well south on the coastal drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles, was founded by Leonard and Brooks Firestone, son and grandson, respectively, of tire magnate Harvey – a member of the so-called Millionaire’s Club that included Henry Ford and Thomas Edison. It’s now owned by Bill Foley, a winery entrepreneur with several other properties to his name. This is textbook cabernet, with flavours of cassis, black olive, spice and cedar carried on a supple texture. Harvey would have appreciated the smooth ride. Tasty for grilled steak. Available in Ontario.

Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2012, Mendoza

94 suckling

Sterling Vintner's Collection Merlot 2009, Central Coast, California

Sterling Vintner’s Merlot 2009 ($15.95; score 90)

Based in Napa, Sterling was founded in 1964 by Englishman Peter Newton, a former Financial Times writer. It carved out a reputation for merlot, and this relatively affordable red is part of a product line that sources fruit from vineyards to the south, between Monterey and Paso Robles. It’s full-bodied and chewy, with firm structure offering flavours of blackberry, chocolate and vanilla. It would be a sterling choice for roast beef or lamb. $14.99 in B.C., $15.75 in Sask., $14.99 in N.S., $15.49 in Nfld., $16.49 in P.E.I.

Sueño Tempranillo 2011, Do Ribera Del Júcar

g&m

Rutherford Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Napa Valley

Mcmanis Family Vineyards Zinfandel 2011, California

My first thought: the cologne department at Holt Renfrew. Intriguingly perfumed for a zinfandel, this full-bodied red starts with flowers on the nose, then the flavours reveal bright raspberry and cherry enlivened by baking spices and crisp acidity. Make that a perfume counter crossed with a candy store. $17.82 in Newfoundland.