Château Canon

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Château Canon is a symphony in a bottle, revealing an intricate aromatic palette that enchants both the expert and the novice. The wine unfurls with delicate floral notes of violets, roses, and lilacs, each petal and whisper painting a picture of a lush, timeless garden. The fruit profile is equally mesmerizing: black raspberries, wild plums, and cherries joyfully collaborate, punctuated by the richness of dark berries and the tangy edge of pink grapefruit. The herbal undertones weave cedar, bay leaf, and a touch of tobacco, reminiscent of an ancient library filled with well-worn, leather-bound books. Earthy echoes of woodsmoke, forest floor, and mineral salinity round out the olfactory experience, promising a complexity that only deepens in the glass. On the palate, the wine dances elegantly, with bright cherries and rich plums leading the waltz. Licorice, spearmint, and cocoa add further complexity, balanced by earthy undertones and the subtle minerality reminiscent of oyster shells. The texture is where Château Canon truly shines: balanced, fresh, and refined, it caresses the palate with a silky, sensual touch. Medium-bodied but with a weight that satisfies, it integrates fine tannins and refreshing acidity into a seamless whole, culminating in a long, elegant finish that evokes a mouthwatering oyster shell minerality. It is a wine that speaks eloquently of its origin, revealing layers of complexity and a refinement that continues to evolve.

Pairings & Suggestions

Château Canon shines when paired with rich, robust dishes that complement its complex flavor profile. Enjoy it with:

• Red Meat: Beef Bourguignon or Rack of Lamb with Herb Crust enhances the wine’s earthy and fruity notes.
• Game: Roast Duck with Cherry Sauce or Venison Stew brings out the wine’s depth and complexity.
• Rich Sauces: Coq au Vin or Beef Wellington elevates the wine’s full character.
• Aged Cheeses: A selection of Aged Gouda, Comté, Manchego, or Roquefort balances the wine’s fruity and earthy flavors.

For the best experience, decant the wine an hour before serving and enjoy it at 16-18°C (60-64°F).

A Corsair’s Vineyard

Jacques Kanon, a pirate turned noble, first saw the promise in the land that would become Château Canon. Acquiring the property in the 1760s, Kanon envisioned a vineyard that would endure long after his maritime escapades. His foresight was validated as the estate flourished under his implementation of vine monoculture, a foundation that paved the way for the vineyard’s future success. By the mid-19th century, the estate, now separate from Clos St. Martin, was rechristened Château Canon. Despite initial pushback from Château Canon of Fronsac, this Saint-Émilion gem carved out an identity synonymous with elegance and excellence, reflecting the tenacity and vision of its founder. Today, under the meticulous guidance of the Wertheimer family and renowned director Nicolas Audebert, Château Canon continues to embody the legacy of innovation and dedication that began with a corsair’s dream.

Taste Profile

Technical Sheet

Storage Instructions

Store Château Canon at 12-15°C (54-59°F) with 70-80% humidity. Keep bottles horizontally in a dark, well-ventilated area away from strong odors and vibrations.