For a long time Randall Grahm went to bed aïoli, cloved in nothing but the barest essential oils. The Wine Formerly Known as Clos de Gilroy (TWFKaCdG) pays homage to the quaint, rustic town of Gilroy, the spiritual locus of all matters alliaceous. However, note well, the fruit for this wine does not, despite its name, derive from Gilroy, but instead primarily from the vivaciously scented Alta Loma vineyard in the Arroyo Seco region of Monterey County, accompanied by equally expressive Grenache from Rancho Solo, located just outside the wind-swept, tumble-weeded town of Soledad. (Il faut souffrir.) Grenache is really what this wine is all about, and it exhibits all the hallmarks of exceptional coolth - bright raspberries, red fruit, esp. black currant, with a strong suggestion of black pepper and mint, a whiff of dark earth, and a supple, lingering finish.
Bonny Doon Vineyard aims for weapons-grade fruit from their sundry Grenache vineyards, with the intent of producing killer Cigare, but sometimes they end up Clos (but no Cigare). A somewhat more elegant Clos de Gilroy than one has typically seen in years past, this wine has the elegance of a Proustian madeleine, and supports the notion that Grenache is the stylistic analogue (writ South) of Burgundian Pinot noir. This wine is exceptionally spicy, peppery and perfumed, and pairs exceptionally well with a range of dishes, not the least being peppered ahi tuna steak. Best served with a slight chill, especially as the weather warms up.
Pairs exceptionally well with a range of dishes, not the least being peppered ahi tuna steak. Best served with a slight chill, especially as the weather warms up.
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Deep lurid red. Ripe spice-tinged red berry cherry and floral aromas along with hints of candied licorice and smoky minerals. Juicy and supple on the palate; a spine of acidity adds lift to sweet raspberry and cherry flavors. Deepens on the clinging red-fruit-driven finish which is shaped by smooth fine-grained tannins.- Josh Raynolds"
- Antonio Galloni's Vinous (October 2018), 90 pts
Bonny Doon Vineyard was founded in 1983 by renowned winemaker Randall Grahm. Randall’s start in the wine industry was not what you might expect for someone with his reputation and talent: ...
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