The soil of the Font de Michelle estate has long been considered one of the best of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The many amphoras and other pottery found on the site can attest to the fact that grapevines have been cultivated and nurtured here since Roman times. The Cadaster of 1800 indicates that 80% of Font de Michelle's territory was planted with grapevines. From 1866 to 1880, the vines suffered, infested with phylloxera, and scrubland replaced the vineyards. Some small parcels of land were planted at the turn of the century and in 1950, Etienne Gonnet created Font de Michelle, with 30 hectares of vineyard. Mayor of the district of Bedarrides from 1952 to 1964 (one of the five districts that make up the label Chateauneuf du Pape), Etienne Gonnet was in his time a model of perseverance, determination, and vigor. Since 1975 his sons Jean and Michel have kept a watchful eye over the estate. Always striving for maximum quality, they produce rich, intense, elegant wines through which the soil can express all its subtleties.

2003 Font de Michelle Cotes du Rhone Etienne Gonnet Notre Passion 750ML Price: $14.99