Uncork any wine with the words “Napa Valley” on the label and guests are going to sit up and take notice. It may be a bit more famous for its blockbuster Cabernet, but Napa also makes magical Merlot—velvety-soft and incredibly food-friendly. This one hails from the highly rated 2018 vintage, which "could even prove to be a new benchmark for Napa Valley reds," writes expert James Suckling. A six-month slumber in expensive French oak barrels completes the inviting picture. If you're lucky enough to get your hands on a bottle (stocks are limited), you're in for intense aromas of cassis, black cherry, and cocoa that introduce a complex, beautifully structured palate of fleshy-ripe plums spiked with clove and toasty vanilla bean. Will be a real show-stopping partner for turkey, ham, or even prime rib.