Since its founding in 1762, Charlottesville has been home to an iconic and diverse group of people, ideas, interests, and cultures. Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery in Leon, Virginia is therefore honored to take part in celebrating Charlottesville’s 250^th birthday! Prince Michel, just north of Charlottesville, was chosen as the exclusive winery to produce the official 250^th anniversary commemorative wine for this year-long celebration.

The two wines chosen to pay tribute to this historic occasion are Prince Michel’s award winning Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Both wines are made from grapes grown in the Monticello appellation of Virginia. Embellished with the custom designed commemorative label, these wines will be available in over 200 locations around the area. They will also be available April 21 for tasting and purchase at the First Annual Monticello Wine Festival at the pavilion on Charlottesville’s downtown mall.

Ric Barrick, City Coordinator for Celebrate250, expressed his enthusiasm for having such a reputable winery representing Charlottesville and providing wine for all the special events planned throughout 2012. Kristin Swanson Holzman owner of Prince Michel echoes Mr. Barrick’s sentiments, “The Prince Michel family is proud to be the winery of choice for the 250^th celebration. Our staff is dedicated to this great event and will do all possible to make it a wonderful memory for residents and visitors.” Pam Gower, also of Prince Michel, was instrumental the selection process of a representative winery to enhance the festivities. According to Ms. Gower, “This area’s significant impact on world renowned viticulture and winemaking is appropriately hallmarked in the selection of a local winery to help commemorate the 250 years of contributions made from Charlottesville citizens and industry.

For more information on 250^th celebratory events and private labeled wines go to www.celebrate250.com and www.princemichel.com.