Wines Saint-Émilion Château Canon-La-Gaffelière - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Château Canon-La-Gaffelière 2021 is a distinguished red wine hailing from one of the most prestigious appellations in Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion AOC. This estate, holding the esteemed rank of Premier Grand Cru Classé, is renowned for its refined winemaking and attention to terroir expression. The 2021 vintage is notable for its blend, traditionally dominated by Merlot with significant contributions from Cabernet Franc and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines thrive on a unique mix of clay-limestone and sandy soils at the foot of Saint-Émilion’s slope, which lends the wine both elegance and complexity. Vinification at Canon-La-Gaffelière is meticulous, with hand-harvesting of grapes and fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, followed by maturation in French oak barrels, a portion of which are new. This results in a Saint-Émilion that balances plush fruit with freshness and savoury depth.

The region itself, situated on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, benefits from a temperate maritime climate. The soils here are rich in limestone and clay, ideal for Merlot, which ripens early and expresses plushness and a sense of place. Cabernet Franc, the signature grape of the area, brings aromatic finesse and structure. Saint-Émilion has a long and storied wine history, dating back to Roman times, and is known for its picturesque medieval town and world-class hillside vineyards.

For food pairings, this elegant yet structured wine is a versatile partner. It harmonises beautifully with classic dishes such as roast duck breast, lamb shoulder with herbs, or beef fillet in a red wine reduction. Regional specialities like entrecôte à la bordelaise or a Saint-Nectaire cheese would also be excellent choices, as they complement the wine’s depth and its notes of ripe plum, black cherry, and subtle spice.

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and textural finesse, serve Château Canon-La-Gaffelière 2021 at 16-18°C. Decanting for about an hour will help open up its youthful vibrancy, revealing layers of fruit, fine tannins, and a graceful, lingering finish.