Surrounded by first classified growths such as Belair, Magdelaine, Clos Fourtet and Beauséjour, Château Canon is one of the oldest properties in Saint-Emilion. It takes its name from an owner in the 18th century, Jacques Canon. Located on the south-west slopes of the appellation, the vineyard lies on varied soil consisting of clay-limestone and sand on limestone subsoil. The Fournier family owned the property from 1919 until 1996, when it was bought by the Wertheimer family from the Chanel group. This historical chateau of Saint-Emilion has significantly grown, since the rebought in 2011 of the Château Matras (12.5 ha), which is in the extension of the property.

Château Canon is an iconic figure in its appellation, with a parcel in the very village of Saint-Emilion. The 34 hectares of vines grow on a layer of chalk-rich soil veined with clay, perfect for growing Merlot. The Cabernet Franc vines are grown in the better-exposed parcels in order to reach optimal maturity. The harvests are, of course, carried out by hand.
When it comes to vinification, each parcel is placed in a separate vat, with the help of gravity, in order to preserve the grape’s distinct identities. The wine is matured in French oak casks for 18-20 months depending on the vintage. What follows is ‘soutirage à l’esquive’, a fastidious racking process that involves separating the wine from its lees in a different way for each cask, without recourse to a pump.
The wine has a beautiful, dark colour. The nose possesses a remarkable finesse with notes of blackberry, blackcurrant, and a discrete, oaky undertone. On the palate, the tannins are round and elegant.
Château Canon can be aged for several decades. For pairing with food, go off the beaten track and try duck breast cooked in a blueberry sauce.