Kermit Lynch Côtes du Rhône 2013: This is consistent value from premier American wine importer, wine writer, and negociant (a wine merchant who buys grapes, partially fermented juice, or finished wine and sells the finished bottles under his own name). Lynch knocked negociants in his early years, then saw the light; American wine drinkers are the better for it. This vintage presents the black cherry, blackberry, raspberry expected from a grenache-led blend; syrah, carignan, cinsault, mourvèdre are here, too, so choose your favorite red grape flavor and you probably can find at least a hint in your glass. Smooth, well-rounded; approachable tannin, some acidity; easy to enjoy at the price. $14
