The 2021 Château Canon is a refined blend of 71% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc from Saint-Émilion’s limestone plateau, combining fragrant fruit with the freshness and precision that define this celebrated estate. A Premier Grand Cru Classé, Canon occupies a privileged position close to the medieval village, where clay over limestone provides the foundation for its elegant, finely structured wines. The 2021 was aged for 16–18 months in French oak, including 50% new barrels, and finished at 13.5% alcohol. It offers a particularly poised expression of Canon, with aromatic detail, measured richness and considerable energy.
Expect raspberry, red cherry and plum, layered with iris, mint, liquorice and subtle sweet spice. The palate combines finely textured fruit with bright acidity, refined tannins and a persistent mineral finish. William Kelley awarded the wine 95 Points for The Wine Advocate in February 2024, highlighting its depth, seamless fruit and exceptionally polished structure. Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW awarded 96 Points for The Wine Independent in April 2024, praising its energetic red and black fruit, tension and length. These assessments capture the appeal of the vintage: expressive and layered, with the freshness to support further development.
Ben’s Recommendation:
What makes this bottle particularly interesting is its freshness, moderate alcohol and elegant structure. For someone who enjoys Bordeaux with floral aromatics, savoury detail and a clear sense of its limestone origins, the 2021 deserves attention. It is still young, and I would ideally give it another few years, targeting 2028 through approximately 2045, assuming good storage. With time, the youthful cherry, plum and mint should develop towards tobacco, dried flowers and more earthy complexity. If opening earlier, taste first and allow a sound bottle an hour or two in a decanter. Pair it with roast lamb, duck breast, beef fillet or mushroom dishes. This is a compelling choice for cellaring an elegant, finely balanced expression of Château Canon.
