Viniou Reviews
Domaine Margales’ “Cuvée Les Beaux Coteaux” 2023 from Canon-Fronsac is a classic Bordeaux red that showcases the elegance and character of the region. While the precise blend is not specified, Canon-Fronsac wines are traditionally dominated by Merlot, often complemented by Cabernet Franc and occasionally Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2023 vintage benefited from a mild spring and a warm, dry summer, producing grapes with balanced ripeness and a fine tannic structure. Canon-Fronsac’s undulating slopes of clay-limestone and alluvial soils impart freshness, minerality, and depth to the wine. Vinification in this area tends to respect the natural expression of fruit and terroir, often with controlled extraction and oak ageing providing subtle complexity without overwhelming the primary characteristics.
Canon-Fronsac, nestled on Bordeaux’s right bank near the historic town of Libourne, enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, moderated by proximity to both the Atlantic and the Dordogne River. This provides a long growing season and sufficient rainfall, ideal for Merlot’s early ripening. The region itself, with viticultural roots dating back to Roman times, was once favoured by the French court for the intensity and finesse of its wines. Today it continues to produce reds that reflect both the richness of Bordeaux’s tradition and the singularity of its varied soils and steep hillsides.
A wine like Domaine Margales’ 2023 Canon-Fronsac is a versatile partner at the table. Its ripe fruit, supple tannins, and hints of earthiness make it suitable with classic dishes such as duck breast with red wine reduction, slow-cooked lamb shoulder with herbs, or a traditional Bordeaux entrecôte à la Bordelaise (grilled sirloin steak with shallots and a red wine sauce). For a vegetarian option, consider wild mushroom risotto or aubergine casserole, both capable of echoing the wine’s depth and subtlety.
For optimum enjoyment, decant the wine for 30 minutes to an hour to allow its bouquet to emerge fully. Serve at 16-18°C to preserve both the wine’s structure and aromatic complexity. This will reveal the best of Canon-Fronsac’s expressive fruit and refined tannins, making for a rewarding tasting experience.
