Bonny Doon Vin Gris de Cigare Rose 2021

Cellar for up to 3 years. Serve chilled.

Set in the small hamlet of Bonny Doon in California’s Santa Cruz Mountains, this quirky winery was founded by Randall Grahm in 1983. Grahm studied viticulture at UC Davis and has become known as the “Rhone Ranger” for his pioneering work in popularising the use of classic Rhone grape varieties in California.

This stunning Vin Gris is named after the winery’s flagship wine, “Le Cigare Volante”, which references a curious decree passed in 1954 by the local village council of Chateaneuf du Pape banning cigar-shaped UFOs from landing in their vineyards. Despite the light-hearted name, this is a serious rosé made from Grenache, Carignane, Grenache Blanc, and Cinsault. The Grenache grapes come from Alta Loma, a cool climate vineyard in Monterey County, while the Carignane comes from very old vines in Contra Costa County.

Following vinification the wine is aged on the yeast lees with stirring or battonage to add a creamy texture and extra complexity. On the nose there are delicate hints of watermelon and raspberries along with cranberry, citrus and fresh mint. The first sip reveals a bright, refreshing acidity, light body and elegant red berry flavours that end in a pure, clean finish.