Jean-Luc Colombo, Côtes du Rhône (Rhône Valley, France) 2017

 Jean-Luc Colombo is a star producer in the Northern Rhône appellation of Cornas.  Many credit him as a locomotive for that appellation, pulling it onto the world’s stage.  It turns out that he also makes a stylish, bargain-priced Côtes du Rhône.  His “Les Abeilles” (the bees) is both fruity and spicy with good power without being overdone.  A blend of Grenache (60%), Syrah (30%) and Mourvèdre, it is far more polished than you’d expect for a wine from this appellation.  It’s a super value.  Buy it by the case for this summer’s casual drinking with hamburgers from the grill.