Full-bodied and well-balanced, this Merlot from the French Mediterranean smells like a bushel of black and red fruits, underlined by subtle notes of liquorice. Crack it open with some grilled meats or pizza, or with a platter of deli meats.

Fifth-generation Beaujolais estate Famille Descombe isn’t resting on its laurels. The family-run label now own properties throughout France, with three new domain acquisitions since Marine Descombe took the helm in the 2010s. They still make great Beaujolais from the Gamay grape, including cru wines Brouilly and Morgon.

IGP Pays d’Oc is one of France’s largest and most distinctive wine regions, with 58 different approved grape varieties and a focus on single varietals rather than blends. Merlot is the most-planted red grape, and in the case of Famille Descombe it can be found at altitudes of over 500m on steep slopes in the village of Val-de-Dagne.

This wine will go perfect with Lamb, Tomato & Black Olive Stew