If I Could Buy Only One – January 4th Vintages Release
We asked our writers, “If you could buy only one wine from the January 4th release, which one would it be and why?”
Bonny Doon Le Cigare Volant 2022, California, USA
$19.10, Family Wine Merchants
John Szabo – Pleasure mingles with nostalgia in my only one pick this week, a wine which, although very different today, first sparked my interest (and that of countless others) in Rhône varieties grown in California. Randal Grahm was one of the original “Rhône Rangers” featured on the cover of Wine Spectator in 1988, a pioneer in these varieties so well-suited to the Central Coast’s Mediterranean Climate. Sip a bit of this history with the Bonny Doon Le Cigare Volant 2022, now a blend of Grenache, syrah, and cinsault with a splash of petite sirah. This once-iconic Central Coast red, first made in 1983 with a tongue-in-cheek reference to a cigar-shaped UFO sighting on the southern Rhône, has taken a more commercial tack since Grahm sold the company and brand in 2020 and production was ramped up. Yet it remains a lovely wine, and replacing the original mourvèdre component with lighter, softer cinsault serves to create a fruitier and easier style, with a definite savoury-herbal, Rhône-like twist with sweet California fruit underpinning. I’d pick this over countless other California reds in the price category, minimally oaked, genuinely dry, and smooth and fruity as it is.
Sara d’Amato – If you’re battling post-holiday blues and are looking for a pick-me-up, this wine is just what you need. Its eye-catching packaging features a UFO trying to unlawfully land in the vineyard, hinting at the playful character of the wine inside. This boisterous and juicy blend is dominated by grenache, complemented by spicy syrah, cinsault, and petite sirah. Expect a burst of candied red fruit, pomegranate, liquorice, and white pepper. Despite its sweet ripeness, there is a levity to the palate thanks to moderate alcohol and supple tannins. It’s vibrant, easygoing and ready to enjoy now.
There are other ‘Only One’ picks this week that are currently only visible to our premium members. This complete article will be free and visible to all members 30 days after publication. We invite you to subscribe today to unlock our top picks and other Premium benefits.
Please take a moment to understand why we charge for timely recommendations.
“For the cost of a good bottle of wine we’ll help you discover hundreds of great ones.”
Use these quick links for access to all of our January 4th Top Picks in the New Release. Non-premium members can select from all release dates 30 days prior.
John’s Top Picks – January 4th
Lawrason’s Take – January 4th
Megha’s Picks – January 4th
Michael’s Mix – January 4th
Sara’s Selections – January 4th
