Let’s splash into some wines for autumn, shall we? This week, a quintet of recently tasted (and enjoyed) red wines coming from notable names that span the globe.

Ruffino Modus 2013

(Tuscany, Italy; $29.99, B.C. Liquor Stores)

A blend casually known as a “super Tuscan”, this combo of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot is aged in a mix of American and French oak barrels for 12 months.

Upon the first couple of swirls, dark, brambly berry fruit and a touch of anise waft out of the glass. A load of juicy currants dominates the palate, with dusty red and black plums carrying the finish.

A fine balance here: well-integrated tannins and juicy acidity keep everything in its right place. Start thinking about what kind of pizza you’re in the mood for.

Black Sage Vineyard Shiraz 2014

(Okanagan Valley, B.C.; $24.99, online)

While British Columbia is known for producing some incredible Syrah, particularly in the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys, it’s a rarity to see the grape referred to by its Shiraz moniker, something we’re more used to when it’s grown in Australia.

So, is this wine a big, jammy fruit bomb or is it a little more closely tethered to the French style, with subtler earth and peppery notes? It is, indeed, nice and ripe, compliments of the Black Sage Vineyard in the South Okanagan, one of the hottest growing regions in the country. The aromatics don’t offer too many hints, some very dark berry fruit and maybe a slight hint of dark chocolate.

On the palate, it’s rather silky. It certainly doesn’t exude too many Old World earthy or rustic characteristics. There’s plenty of fruit here, though; stewed blueberries and blackberries are dusted with a touch of wild sage, and there’s a pretty balsamic note toward the end.

It’s definitely nearer the Shiraz side of things, but I’m happy to report that it’s far from being a fruit bomb. The purity of fruit, acidity, tannins, and alcohol are all right where they should be, and more than anything else, it’s delicious.

Robert Mondavi Maestro 2013

(Napa Valley, California; $63.99, B.C. Liquor Stores)

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Robert Mondavi Winery situated on Napa Valley’s legendary To Kalon Vineyard, director of winemaking Genevieve Janssens has launched this new wine to much fanfare.

Built from 59-percent Merlot, 25-percent Cabernet Franc, seven-percent Cabernet Sauvignon, six-percent Petit Verdot, and three-percent Malbec, the grapes were hand-harvested, then fermented in French oak. After 21 months of ageing in 75-percent new French oak, we now have a rather stunning wine in front of us.

Some sweeter black and red fruit highlight the aromatics, while that toasty French oak trails behind. Blackberries, Italian plum, and dates are graced with a good lashing of cardamom and clove. Layered underneath are Bing cherry, a smidge of sundried tomato, a little cocoa, and a sprig of mint.

Well built and balanced, drink now or lay it down for a special celebration of your own a few years down the road.

Vina Cobos Felino Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

(Mendoza, Argentina; $24-$27, private liquor stores)

From famed winemaker Paul Hobbs comes this opulent Cabernet Sauvignon from high-altitude mountain vineyards in Argentina. The fruit is lush, with strawberries, cherries, and black currants all making appearances, woven with spearmint, mocha, and white-pepper character.

This is one of those wines that’s at once juicy and easily quaffable, but there’s some lovely nuances of spices and herbs for those looking to examine it a little further. When in Argentina, I’d do what the Argentinians do and barbecue a nice juicy steak and serve it with a good dollop of chimichurri.

Recently spotted at Marquis Wine Cellars on Davie Street and Everything Wine on the North Shore.

Paul Mas Estate Single Vineyard Collection Malbec 2015

(Pays d’Oc, France; $13.99, B.C. Liquor Stores)

While the majority of us are used to drinking Malbecs from Argentina, let’s not ignore the variety’s homeland in France. The Gardemiel Vineyard where these vines are grown is just a couple hundred kilometres from Cahors, where the grape’s story originally began.

A distinctively meaty nose of charred brisket and barbecue sauce had me salivating off the bat. The bright acidity on the palate kept that sensation going, and it carries a flood of blueberries and cherries, along with umami notes of hoisin and sundried tomato. All the way through, the wine is adorned with fresh herbs; a little thyme, lavender, and rosemary goes a long way.

A ridiculous bargain at $13.99, if you hop to it—it’s on offer for $12.99 until October 1.