Rhône Ranger Red

The term Rhône Ranger refers to California winemakers taking a different tack. Instead of the dominant production of wines from the traditional Bordeaux and Burgundy grapes, they look to the varietals common to the Rhône Valley of Southern France. Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault instead of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay. One of the self-proclaimed leaders of the group was none other than against-the-stream, enfant terrible winemaker Randall Grahm and his Bonny Doon Vineyard.  

Ever the comedian, the wine labels and brands he created poke fun, but the contents always demonstrate serious winemaking. Le Cigare Volant, his French style red Rhône blend, translates as flying saucer. It refers to an ordinance passed by the town council of the famous wine village Chateauneuf-du-Pape in 1954 that cigare volants were prohibited from landing in their vineyards. This occurred at a time when the western world was obsessed with reports of extraterrestrials and spaceships. No sightings were ever recorded but it still had humankind on edge. The label contains all kinds of quirky comments. Look for them and get a chuckle. For example, “Ce n’est pas un cigare.” This is not a cigar.

 Le Cigare Volant is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault and Petite Sirah grapes sourced from premium vineyard sites located along California’s Central Coast. Fermentation took place in stainless steel with untoasted oak added to aid in texture and colour stability. Bottling of this 2022 vintage took place the following summer.

Drinking beautifully now, it can be aged for another five years. Start the New Year by pairing Le Cigare Volant with a rare-to-medium rare flank steak.         

2022 Bonny Doon Vineyard Le Cigare Volant LCBO #18516, $19.10 (save the GST, regular price $21.95)