FFW 2021 Wine Catalogue

RHÔNE SOUTHERNRHÔNE

MEET THE GROWER Domaine font de Michelle BÉDARRIDES

This family-owned Domaine traces its roots back to 1880 but did not make wine until 1950 when Étienne Gonnet arrived at the helm. He not onlymade wine but was also Mayor for 10 years andmarried to a Brunier of Vieux Télégraphe fame. Guillaume Gonnet and his brothers continue the hard work. Wines are aged using cement, old foudres and demi-muids, with just a hint of new French oak. I think theymake some of themost engaging wines in the region and always have a wonderful range across the board.

WA92-94 POINTS

CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE, CUVÉE TRADITION DOMAINE FONT DE MICHELLE 2016 DRINK2023 - 2035

12x75 £235 3x150 £138 1x300 £115

Decadent, hedonistic, complex and full wines

that are frightfully under-priced and underestimated.

Amix of 70%Grenache, 10% Syrah and 20% “field blend”, this cuvée is drawn from south-east-facing plots gettingmoremorning sun than afternoon, helping keep the alcohol at amanageable 14.5% and creating noticeable freshness in the wine. There’s alluring red fruits and spice on the nose and palate. The limestone soil adds minerality here, which is balanced with the bold tannin. Once these have softened the wine will remain in balance with a fresh and bright elegance.

—ROBERTPARKER

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