A wine wearing a suit and a pair of sneakers. That’s the best way to describe this brilliant blend from Friendsips — elegant enough to impress, relaxed enough not to take itself too seriously. Merlot brings the polish and the ripe, juicy fruit; Rubin — a fascinating Bulgarian cross of Nebbiolo and Syrah, developed in the 1940s — brings the intrigue, the spice, and that slightly wild, enigmatic edge that makes this wine so hard to put down. The nose is generous and inviting, with black cherries, dark forest fruits, and a lovely dried herb note that adds real complexity. On the palate it’s smooth and well-structured, with a long, satisfying finish. The kind of wine that makes you want to know more about Bulgaria — and then order another bottle while you find out.