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.