2008 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Tradition, Domaine Font de Michelle
The 2008 at Font de Michelle shows good substance (note that Cuvée Etienne Gonnet was not produced in 2008, so the old vine Grenache has been incorporated here). Bright crimson in the glass, the nose exudes peppery cherry fruit and garrigue. The palate follows in a similar vein, with plenty of lush, freshly crushed fruit on show and peppery raspberry to the fore. There is a sweet ripeness apparent here, which is carried beautifully by the higher acidity of the vintage. Impressive results, a very moreish Châteauneuf.