Not your typically smooth merlot, this very dry red from Hawke's Bay on the North Island plays up the herbs, with a nod at Loire Valley cabernet franc. But there's attractive plum, berry and chocolate to support the greenery. A good match for grilled lamb chops. $17.99 in B.C., $19.35 in Sask., $17.99 in Man., $19.60 in Que., $22.49 in N.B., $21.99 in N.S., $20.99 in Nfld., $20.99 in PEI.