Today my American wine pick is for lovers of Chateau Neuf du Pape, and also for people like me who love story and humour.
But first, to love this wine, I have to tell you more about the man behind it: Randall Grahm. He is one of the most charismatic people in wine with a Monty Python-esque sense of humour and a newsletter that’s enjoyable even if you’re not a wine lover. Before becoming a wine maker, Randall was a philosopher.
Let’s talk about the first wine made with Rhone Valley grape varieties in the United States: le Cigare Volant. What a strange name! But once again, full of humour; it comes from a law in Chateau Neuf du Pape that prohibits flying saucers from traveling over the region’s vineyards!
Le Cigare Volant is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (known as GSM in the wine business) and Cinsault. It’s a full body red, with fantastic flavours of cherries, red bramble fruits, black pepper and silky tannins. It’s a perfect companion to barbecued meats, beef and lamb.
It’s definitely one of my favourite California wines because of the taste but also because of the man behind it.
Our next wine event takes place on July 3rd: just in time for Independence day we have an American winelist from Colin Burbidge and American-influenced menu devised by Paul Heathcote and Carl Noller. You can view the menu by clicking here.
Cheers!
-Anne Malhere
