Bonny Doon Le Cigare Volant 2023

Drink now or cellar for up to 7 years. No need to decant before serving. Located in the small settlement of Bonny Doon in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this is one of California’s most significant wineries thanks to their pioneering work to popularise Rhone varietals in the United States. Maverick winemaker Randall Grahm fell in love with wine after studying philosophy and decided to pursue a degree in viticulture at UC Davis. In 1983 he founded Bonny Doon which has become a point of reference for minimal intervention wines made from Rhone varietals on top Californian terroir. Le Cigare Volant is Bonny Doon’s flagship wine and takes its name from an unusual decree forbidding UFOs from landing in the vineyards that was passed by the local village council in Chateauneuf du Pape in 1954. The wine is crafted from Grenache, cool climate Syrah and 100-year old Mourvedre vines in Contra Costa County. There is also some Cinsault from 120 year old vines in the blend. Heady notes of crushed dark berries, licorice and spice define the nose while the first sip reveals a full body, firm tannins and intense cassis, raspberry and dried fruit flavours. The finish is long and rich with hints of dark fruit, woodsmoke and dried herbs. A great wine to pair with hearty red meat dishes.

Price: £21.14 from 8wines UK