Maison Roche de Bellene, Coteaux Bourguignons (Burgundy, France) 2016

 The fruit for this charming wine was grown on the sunny slopes of a new French appellation:  Coteaux Bourguignons (which translates roughly as “Hillsides of Burgundy”).  This red blend, which includes Gamay Noir and Pinot Noir, shows off fully ripened fruit.  Don’t overthink “Bellenos”:  It is what the French call “un vin de plaisir,” a wine designed to be simply enjoyed rather than over-analyzed.  But that description is by no means meant to minimize the enjoyment this tasty, fruity wine offers.