Saint-Emilion's history goes back to prehistoric times and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Romans planted vineyards in what was to become Saint-Emilion as early as the 2nd century AD. 
The monk, Emilion sought refuge here in the 8th century. After his death in 767, his name was given to the place where he had lived. It was the monks who followed him, that started up the commercial wine production in the area. These Benedictine monks were inspired to build a church carved out of solid rock which is the largest monolithic cathedral in all of Europe. In Saint Emilion there are 173 acres (more than 70 ha) of underground galleries all carved in limestone. I want to share with you one of these hidden jewels.
The Ferrand’s grottos (Grottes de Ferrand) are just a few miles from our home, hidden below a vineyard, in a hillside looking out over us. The view is spectacular. 
When you approach it, all you see are two pillars. 
As you descend the overgrown steps you can then enter the underground corridors. The unique chambers and passageways emanate a warm ocher colour. 
The tunnels were carved to line up with the winter and summer solstice. The longest gallery has seven openings. A natural spring feeds a carved limestone pool. It is a place of peace, with no known history to explain its origins.
Just as many of the local people have not visited these grottos, others have not had the pleasure of enjoying the special wines that we produce here. The Jurisdiction of Saint-Emilion has an area of 667 acres (2702 hectares) and an approximate population of 2444 inhabitants. Most of Saint-Emilion vineyards are family-owned and relatively small: 17.3 acres (7 hectares) on average. 
We are thrilled to be among the jewels of the world's most acclaimed wine-growing region and would like to share our Chateau Plaisance Grand Cru with you.
