| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Right Bank > St Emilion |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
Chateau Canon's second label comes from vineyards that adjoin Canon, Berliquet and Beausejour Duffau - but which are not classified Premier Grand Cru Classe. The wine is produced by Canon's technical team led by Nicolas Audebert.
As I wrote early this year, the last few vintages of this bottling have established its status as one of Bordeaux's finest second labels (though since it derives from dedicated holdings below Berliquet, it's not a "second wine" in the strict sense), and the 2023 Croix Canon is further proof of that thesis. Bursting with aromas of raspberries, cherries, kirsch and licorice, this blend of 58% Merlot and 42% Cabernet Franc is medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with a lively core of fruit and fine, elegantly chalky tannins.
The 2023 Croix Canon is matured in 27% new oak, including four foudres. It has a light, slightly tertiary bouquet with dark berry fruit and a touch of tobacco. The palate is medium-bodied with a grainy-textured entry, light briny notes and just a very small attenuation toward the finish. This is a pretty second wine—one I would broach within the first six to eight years.
Bright ruby in colour with a highly floral nose of cherry blossom, rose and bright red plums. The palate is supple, with an almost burgundian sweetness from red fruit and lightly caramelised red currants. Slick oak adds a little weight, the tannins simply melt into the background and the acidity is fresh. Superbly textured and forward, this will drink well in its youth.
Crunchy and pretty fruit with orange-peel, currant, earth and bark character. It's medium-bodied with racy tannins and a fresh finish. Vivid.
The 2023 Croix Canon is plump, juicy and very easy to like. Pretty floral top notes and brisk acids lend freshness to this charming, mid-weight Saint-Émilion. Clean mineral underpinnings give the wine notable verve.
