At a glance

Producer

Château Canon

Region

Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Merlot (74%), Cabernet Franc (26%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

Approximately $110-$140 per 750ml bottle (retail price mid-2024, sources include Wine-Searcher averaged merchant listings)

Tasting profile

Dense black cherry, plum, graphite and earthy mineral notes with hints of cigar box and dusty tobacco. Moderate oak influence shows vanilla and spice.

Evolution: Over time, fruit will soften and integrate deeper into terroir-driven mineral and forest floor nuances. Tannins will become silkier and acidity will round out, revealing complex tertiary aromas.

At peak: At peak, expect harmonious balance between fresh dark fruit, softened tannins, refined oak, and complex layers of leather, truffle, and subtle spice.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus acidity, providing freshness to balance the richness and ensuring good aging potential

Tannins

Firm, ripe, finely grained tannins with good density, still resolving but well integrated with fruit

Alcohol

Moderate to slightly elevated (~13.5-14%) well integrated, adds body without overpowering

Aging potential

20-25+ years from vintage, excellent bottle aging expected due to tannin, acidity, and vintage quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2029 to 2060

Optimal window

2026 to 2063

Current status

Needs aging

Current condition

Firm tannins and structured acidity; primary and some secondary fruit aromas beginning to integrate but still youthful and closed for casual drinking

The peak window (2029–2036) aligns with the gradual softening of the firm tannins and the full integration of oak and varietal characteristics. During this period, the wine exhibits optimal harmony between youthful vigor and developed complexity. Following the peak, tertiary notes dominate and structure begins to decline slowly.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with classic Bordeaux dishes such as roasted duck breast, lamb shoulder or rack, slow-cooked beef stew, and mushroom risotto. As it evolves, pairs well with game meats like venison and richer sauces. Cheese options include aged Comté or mild blue cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow the wine to open up aromatically and soften tannins for more immediate enjoyment, especially when young and tightly structured.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Traditional viticulture with increasing incorporation of sustainable farming practices; focus on reduced chemical inputs and more environmentally conscious vineyard management as of recent years

While Château Canon has recently achieved organic certification starting with the 2024 vintage, the 2016 vintage predates this. The estate has been moving towards better sustainability but full certification and comprehensive carbon footprint reduction were not yet achieved in 2016.