Goleta Merlot 2018

Merlot is, of course, the great grape of Right Bank Bordeaux - most famously of Saint Emilion and Pomerol. It also, however, makes deliciously easy going, ripe and fruity reds around the rest of the world. Those from Chile tend to be particularly good value and, in style, halfway between the exuberant fruitiness of the New World and the elegance of the Old. Goleta is a no-pretensions red, silky with bright red fruits and a nice fresh bite. It's just the ticket slightly chilled in summer, on its own and very versatile with a range of everyday suppers. Veggie or meaty shepherd's pie, toad in the hole, spaghetti carbonara or roasted vegetable and couscous salad with tangy feta. Take your pick.