2009 Red Blend Wine between $10 and $25

Black currant, bilberry, violet and spice flavors align in this luscious red, which is well-balanced and integrated, with a lingering aftertaste of sweet fruit and spices. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Drink now through 2018. 54,000 cases made.?B.S.

Located at the base of the Simonsberg Mountains in South Africa's Paarl region, Glen Carlou's vineyards are influenced by the highly favorable weather pattern of the Cape, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The Glen Carlou Winery has established an enviable international reputation for its multi-varietal Bordeaux grape blends. The full-flavored 2009 combines an appealing New World lushness of fruit with an enchanting Old World bouquet of floral, cedar and mineral. At the same time, Glen Carlou's wines are uniquely South African in their expression of the native terroir.