2023 Crown of Avignon

Paso Robles, California | Paso Robles | 15.5% ABV

Vineyard Truss, Alta Colina, Caelesta, & Yankowski

Elevage 20 months in 20% new, 80% used French oak barrels

Blend ‍ ‍‍ ‍ 38% Grenache, 37% Syrah, 19% Mourvèdre, 3% Graciano

Cases 155

Release Date Spring 2026

Release Price $80.00

The nose opens with aluring aromatics of wild strawberry, ripe cherry, baking spice, and lavender, underscored by hints of herbal thyme and dusty earth. On the palate, bright, vibrant fruit is woven with savory complexity—Grenache delivers plush red berry richness and floral lift, Syrah brings juicy black fruit, pepper, and violet tones, while Mourvèdre lends structure, depth, and gentle tannic grip. The whisper of Graciano adds a touch of fragrant spice and tensile acidity, lifting the blend. The barrel regimen enhances nuance rather than dominance: the used oak preserves purity of fruit and terroir expression, while the new oak adds subtle layers of vanila and sweet spice. The result is a wine of graceful balance—vivid yet grounded, expressive yet refined.

Culinary Pairings

The interplay of fruit, tannins, and acidity makes this GSM a perfect match for a variety of dishes.

  • Carnivore: Griled New York Strip Steak, Smoked Sausages, or Garlic & Sage Butter Roasted Chicken with Red Peppers

  • Vegetarian: Lion’s Mane Steaks, Teriyaki Glazed Vegetable Skewers, or Charred Eggplant Steaks

  • Cheese: Piave Vecchio, Fontina Val d’Aosta, or Parmigiano‑Reggiano

Symbol

The Labyrinth stands as a testament to the intricate journey of crafting the Crown of Avignon. This GSM blend embodies the complexity and dedication of its creator, Andy. The labyrinth symbolizes the winding path Andy navigated, filed with chalenges and triumphs, to perfect this exquisite wine. Each twist and turn in the labyrinth mirrors the meticulous process of blending Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, resulting in a wine that is as rich in character as the journey itself. The Crown of Avignon is a story of perseverance and passion, and it is captured in every bottle.

Harvest Notes

Crown of Avignon is a harmonious blend inspired by the rich, elegant traditions of Southern Rhône—where Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre converge to create wines of depth, finesse, and layered complexity. In this 2023 bottling, Cairjn brings together 38% Grenache, 37% Syrah, 22% Mourvèdre, and a hint of 3% Graciano, al aged in 20% new and 80% used French oak barrels to balance freshness with subtle oak nuance.

Tasting Notes

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