Bonny Doon - Le Cigare Volant California 2021 (750ml)

Bonny Doon Le Cigare Volant 2021

Served @ DBFW's "Cali Blend" Tasting 

While Bonny Doon Vineyard began with the (in retrospect) foolish attempt to replicate Burgundy in California, Randall Grahm realized early on that he would have far more success creating more distinctive and original wines working with Rhône varieties in the Central Coast of California. The key learning here (achieved somewhat accidentally but fortuitously) was that in a warm, Mediterranean climate, it is usually blended wines that are most successful. In 1986 Bonny Doon Vineyard released the inaugural vintage (1984) of Le Cigare Volant, an homage to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and this continues as the winery’s flagship/starship brand.

Winemaker Notes: The 2021 Cigare is significantly riper, denser, and richer on the palate than Cigares d’antan, but its concentration was not attained with concomitant harshness, heat, or suggestions of over-ripeness. It is seamlessly knit, drinking exceptionally well at release, with years ahead of it to go.

Blend: 65% Grenache, 18% Syrah, 15% Cinsault, 2% Petite Sirah