Kim Crawford Small Parcels Merlot Cabernet 2014, Marlborough, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand: A rich, supple New Zealand red wine blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon grapes grown on vines planted in warm region in the Hawkes Bay thus the more full-bodied and flavourful style. Perfect for grilled pork chops. Drink: 2016-2022. 447433 14% D 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 92/100. November 7, 2018 Top Rated Red. Voluptuous Veal Wine Full Review

Mulderbosch Faithful Hound Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Petit Verdot Malbec Cabernet Franc 2011, Stellenbosch W.O., South Africa: The 2011 vintage was a spectacular one for this winery. In particular, the Faithful Hound red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc grapes is greatly benefiting from Mulderbosch's new, dynamic winemaker, Adam Mason. As well, there's a new owner, American Charles Banks, and together they are creating a tremendous amount of energy, vision and great wine together. The Faithful Hound offers enticing aromas of black, smoky fruit and a savoury, mouth-watering core. Some cedar notes in the background and on the finish. Perfect for prime rib or a rare steak. Decant for 1 hour. Highly recommended. Drink: 2013-2019. 922443 13.50% XD 750 mL  $24.95 Score: 93/100. December 6, 2014 Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

H3 Columbia Crest Merlot 2013, Horse Heaven Hills, Washington State, United States: The difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures in this eastern Washington state wine region is the reason why Merlots like this one are terrific. In October, during the last weeks of the key ripening season before harvest the nighttime temperature can plummet from 35 degrees in the day to just 20 degrees at night which allows for ripening during the day but then the grapes stop in the night and preserve freshness and natural acidity. The great thing is that the grapes don't get over-ripe as in some warm climates where photosynthesis produces more sugar and therefore more alcohol. That's why Washington red wines are often a moderate 13% alcohol. This wine features aromas of dark spice, fleshy blackberry and smoke. Pair with roast beef. Drink: 2013-2019. 209874 14.50% D 750 mL  $22.95 Score: 92/100. January 27, 2017 Top Rated Red Wine. Best Beef Wine Full Review

Cannonball Merlot 2014, Sonoma County California, United States: Lots of mocha and dark chocolate on the nose from generous, but balanced oak aging. Some black fruit underneath and mouth-watering juiciness for a wide range of dishes from steak to grilled pork chops. Make a splash with Cannonball at your next potluck gathering. This Californian red wine features bing cherry, fig, spice, anise and dark chocolate on the nose. Pair with a pepper steak. Drink: 2016-2021. 342824 13.70% XD 750 mL  $25.95 Score: 91/100. November 25, 2017 Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review

Sterling Merlot 2012, Napa Valley, California, United States: Sterling is known for its smooth, full-bodied and superbly balanced Merlot wines. This classic from the heart of Napa Valley is a Vintages Essential product. Sterling launched California's first-ever vintage-dated wine back in 1969. The 2011 vintage is loaded with aromas of blackberry and black plum. Superb. Drink: 2017-2020. 330241 14.50% XD 750 mL  $37.95 Score: 92/100. July 22, 2017 Best Value Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review

Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Blue Label Merlot 2016, California, United States: Smoky, dark and brooding Californian red wine like winemaker (and director) Francis Coppola's Dracula movie. Full-bodied and smooth with black plums and toasty oak. Coppola's Merlot grapes grow in select vineyards in Napa, Sonoma and Monterey. Full-bodied Californian red wine. Pair this wine with grilled pork chops and movie night. Drink: 2018-2024. 595686 13.10% XD 750 mL  $29.95 Score: 91/100. September 15, 2018 Top Rated Red Wine. Harmonious Hard Cheese Wine Full Review

Sterling Napa Valley Merlot 2015, Napa Valley, California, United States: Sterling released its first-ever vintage-dated California Merlot in 1969 and is known for its smooth, full-bodied and superbly balanced Merlot wines. The 2015 vintage is silky with soft ripe blackberry, cherry, plum and chocolate tones. Tannins are fine and there is good acidity on this wine for food. Pair with Porchetta sandwiches. Drink: 2018-2024. 330241 14.50% XD 750 mL  $37.95 Score: 92/100. January 3, 2019 Top Rated Red Wine. Plush Pork Wine Full Review