Château Bas-d’Aumelas, Languedoc AOP (Languedoc – Roussillon, France) 2017

 This straightforward, fruity, delightful wine perhaps does not deserve 90 points, but it gets extra credit for value.  A blend of Grenache (70%) and Carignan, this fresh and lively red delivers a balanced array of red fruit flavors, spice and herbal elements.  This light red is perfect in the summer when you need something more substantial than a rosé.  The tannins are barely perceptible so it would be good chilled when you grilling burgers.  (You may see the family name of the owners, D’Albenas, on the label rather than the official name of the château.)