Le Cigare Volant needs no introduction, especially if you live around these parts. Wine wizard Randall Grahm started the “Flying Cigar” label after reading that the village council of Chateauneuf-du-Pape was “perturbed” that flying saucers—or “flying cigars”—might do damage to their vineyards “were they to land therein.”
The label art on the bottle of 2021 Central Coast Le Cigare Volant “Red Wine of the Earth” is original art from an 1855 edition of “Bordeaux et Ses Châteaux” spaceship courtesy of Jules Vern, circa 1870. Everything has deep meaning and relevance for Grahm.
A rich blend of 65% Grenache, 18% Syrah, 15% Cinsaut and 2% Petite Sirah, this very drinkable red vino is a mere $17.99 and comes with an easy-off screw cap. “The spicy, licorice component from the Syrah is a perfect foil to the Griotte cherry derived from the Cinsaut,” Grahm says. “It’s juicy elderberry, exuberance and joy.” ’Tis no wonder Wine Enthusiast awarded it 92 points.
A new tasting space in Aptos called Doon to Earth is opening in Ser Winery’s tasting room. Ser Winery founder and winemaker Nicole Walsh has worked with Grahm for over 20 years, so it makes sense that Ser and Bonny Doon would band together.
“We’ve always had such a great time at our tasting rooms in all their sundry incarnations,” says Grahm. “I’m certain Doon to Earth will be every bit as intellectually stimulating and warmly welcoming as the former ones have been.”
Ser Wines and Bonny Doon Vineyard, 10 Parade St., Ste. B, Aptos. 805-909-2888; serwinery.com or bonnydoonvineyard.com.
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