A St Emilion with Class - 2006 Canon

Chateau Canon has a long history in St Emilion, dating back to the early 18th century, including a period of disrepair and neglect. Saved from this fate by the Wertheimer family, who also own Rauzan Segla in Margaux, and manager John Kolasa, Canon now enjoys the reputation as one of the finest properties in the region and one of the most fascinating for visitors. In addition to seeing completely restored structures and vineyards, tourists can walk through caves below the property and pass to those under adjoining Clos Fourtet and  Beau-Sejour Becot. The properties are literally separated by gates alone on this level!

Just as fascinating is the wine they produce, known to be a muscular, masculine style intended for long cellaring. Keeping this in mind, I selected a half bottle of the 2006 Canon to enjoy recently as the smaller format lends itself to a quicker maturation. I am also a fan of the 375 ml – there isn’t a worry of not finishing as there might be with a bottle, at least not for me.

The 2006 Canon was all that I anticipated – virile and bold without being overpowering in any way. The fruit notes are entirely dark – mostly cherry but a bit of blueberry as well – with an appealing meatiness on the palate. It opened up nicely after about an hour or so of decanting and continued to evolve for the hour and a half that it took to sip. Given the backbone it exhibits, I have no doubt it will cellar beautifully for another decade or more.

Neal Martin gave the wine a rating of 94-96 points, stating that it has “good definition” and is “very well balanced.” James Suckling (while at Wine Spectator) noted that it is “pleasing and friendly”. I whole-heartedly agree and recommend giving it a try! At $39.95 for the half bottle, it is an affordable way to experience this producer and region and is great to keep on hand for gifts this holiday season. Who wouldn’t love a small package full of “class”?  

“…the last four or five vintages have exuded class, including at blind-tastings when it compared favorably with luminaries such as Château Cheval-Blanc and Château Ausone.” – Neal Martin