Domaine du Bagnol Blanc Caganis Cassis Provence 2021

As the youngest of four myself, I had to smile when I learned that “Caganis” means “last-born” in old Provencal. And honestly, this wine wears the title well. Like the baby of the family, the Domaine du Bagnol 2021 Caganis Blanc seems to get away with having loads of personality – it’s bright, expressive, and totally attention-grabbing – without a heavy, responsibility-bearing price tag.

And beneath that charm, there’s real depth. This is old-vine fruit grown on the limestone slopes of Cassis – a blend of mostly Marsanne and Clairette, with small bits of Ugni Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, and Pascal Blanc. It feels youthful and lively upfront, but then subtly carries this phenomenal confidence and poise clearly borrowed from its older “siblings.” At $22.95 – down from a typical $40 retail price – it also happens to be the wildly overachieving youngest child who somehow delivers the most value in the family.

(Speaking strictly as an unbiased youngest child, of course.)

My notes: This explodes from the glass with vibrant aromas of Meyer lemon, white peach, honeysuckle, and sea spray, followed by subtleties of fennel and crushed stone. The palate brings this beautiful energy and texture that’s both fresh and citrusy, as well as rich and round, with a saline, smoky minerality coursing through it. It feels just as at home with fresh seafood as it would simply on its own at sunset. What else could you want in a summer white?

Six bottles will get you free shipping – and yes, you’ll want six. This is magnetic, mesmerizing, and so very easy to enjoy. Again – not so different than hanging out with a beloved youngest sibling… though any older siblings reading this are welcome to disagree. Either way, get plenty for your summer festivities, and don’t look back!