2019 Château Canon – Croix Canon.
Recently we reviewed Château Rauzan-Ségla’s second wine, Ségla. In this review we are discussing the second wine of one of its sister estates, Château Canon. Both estates are under the same ownership (Chanel) and both are climbing up in the charts.
The 2019 Croix Canon comes from Saint-Émilion, and can be found in a similar price range as Ségla. Both second wines offer a great view of the potential of the Chateaux, at a strong price quality ratio.
About the Winery
Château Canon is a Premier Grand Cru Classé B estate, that finds its home on Saint-Émilion’s famous limestone plateau. The Château Canon has a storied history and commitment to crafting exceptional wines.
Founded in the early 18th century as Clos St-Martin, the estate’s transformation began in 1760 under Jacques Kanon, a privateer who expanded its vineyards and constructed the original château. It was officially renamed Château Canon in 1853, marking the start of its legacy as one of Bordeaux’s finest producers.
For much of the 20th century, Château Canon quietly rested on its laurels, but the acquisition by the Wertheimer family, owners of Chanel, in 1996 sparked a remarkable renaissance. Under the guidance of John Kolasa, the estate underwent extensive renovations, including the replanting of 50% of its 22-hectare vineyard between 1996 and 2003. These now-mature vines, coupled with thoughtful viticultural practices, have revitalized the vineyard’s potential. The team has further elevated the estate by integrating massal selections and clones, cover crops, and precision-driven management of its unique terroir.
The limestone plateau, covered by a thin layer of clay measuring 0.25 to 0.7 meters, provides a remarkably homogeneous terroir, ideal for the cultivation of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. While the vineyard is predominantly planted with 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, there are no plans to significantly alter this composition, reflecting a respect for tradition. The vineyard also includes a small parcel in the town of Saint-Émilion and another near the neighboring Château Berliquet, also owned by Chanel.
Nicolas Audebert, the visionary winemaker who oversees Chanel’s wine estates, including Château Rauzan-Ségla in Margaux, has taken the reins at Château Canon. His winemaking philosophy prioritizes finesse and balance over sheer power, with wines maturing in 50% new French oak barrels from top cooperages. The result is a style that harmonizes richness, texture, and precision, emphasizing elegance without losing the innate depth of this extraordinary terroir.
About the Wine
The 2019 Croix Canon, the second wine of the renowned Château Canon, beautifully captures the elegance and character of Saint-Émilion’s limestone terroir. It is a wine that bridges accessibility and complexity, showcasing both the refinement of the estate and its commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality.
In the glass, this wine presents a striking ruby-purple hue with garnet highlights, a vivid reflection of its youth and potential for further aging. The bouquet is intricately layered, unfolding aromas of ripe raspberries, plums, and blackberries, interwoven with earthy notes of loamy soil, graphite, and hints of raw cocoa. Floral nuances of violet and iris petals add a graceful touch, while subtle accents of cedar, tobacco, and spice lend a classic charm.
On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with a seamless balance between ripe fruit, freshness, and structure. Juicy red and black fruit flavors dominate, enhanced by a lifted edge of cherry blossom and brambly undertones. The Merlot imparts a plush, velvety texture, while the Cabernet Franc contributes firm structure and a savory complexity, including notes of pencil shavings and a gentle hint of white pepper.
The wine’s acidity is vibrant and perfectly integrated, driving the palate with energy and precision. The tannins are silky and finely grained, offering both charm and a gentle grip. The finish is long and earthy, with lingering floral and mineral undertones, leaving a fresh, sapid impression.
Conclusion: The 2019 Croix Canon is an impeccably crafted second wine, offering immediate approachability while possessing the structure and balance to mature beautifully over the next decade. It seamlessly blends classic Bordeaux charm with modern refinement, serving as a compelling showcase of Château Canon’s craftsmanship.
Polished yet authentic, this vintage exudes an old-school elegance, prioritizing finesse and vibrancy over sheer power. It embodies the meticulous winemaking philosophy of Château Canon, delivering a wine that captures the essence of Saint-Émilion with remarkable depth and authenticity.
We award this wine with a 92-point DWA score.
This review is written by Niels Aarts. Château Canon is imported in the Netherlands by Poot Agenturen and available through selected retail and hospitality partners.
Price: €55,00
Taste Date: November 2024
Score: 92/100 DWA Score
Website: Château Canon