I don’t like to let the weather determine my wine choices, but as long as the snow is falling, I will keep reaching for robust red wines. One such red is Kermit Lynch’s Languedoc Rouge. Since the early 1990s, Lynch has worked with vigneron Jean-Claude Zabalia to produce a wine that exemplifies the quality and value that reds from the Languedoc region can offer. In his Languedoc Red, Zabalia meticulously blends Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, and Cinsault to create one of the best values coming out of southern France. Aged in 70% stainless steel tank, 30% wood, this medium-red offers fresh aromas of spiced red plum and blackberry, while the palate presents black cherry, clove, subtle hints of vanilla, and velvety tannins. I suggest pairing a glass with braised beef ragu over rigatoni.
