2017 Chateau Canon
By Chateau Canon
2017 Chateau Canon from Chateau Canon, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
In the pantheon of Bordeaux's storied vintages, there are few that arrive with the quiet confidence of the 2017 Chateau Canon from Chateau Canon. The season's somewhat capricious nature across the region rendered a patchwork of outcomes, but this Saint-Emilion jewel has brilliantly defied the broader narrative with its own composed and harmonious expression.
Delicate Precision in an Unpredictable Year
The climatic challenges of 2017 — marked by frost early in the year and a rather swift harvest — led to a fortunate concentration of fruit for those vines spared by weather's whims. Against this tumultuous backdrop, Chateau Canon's astute vineyard stewardship and selective harvesting have culled a vintage that exudes an artful balance. It renders investors wise to heed the singular nuance of this marvelously crafted wine.
The Essence of a Resilient Terroir
This enlightened production speaks eloquently of its terroir; the limestone bedrock and clay that distinguish the plateau of Saint-Emilion endow the 2017 Chateau Canon with a poised structure, admirable depth, and a finesse on the palate. The bouquet is gracefully orchestrated — layers of dark cherry and plum intermingle with hints of violet and subtle spice notes, presaging a lingering finish that remains anchored by supple tannins and refreshingly vibrant acidity.
Investment in a wine like the 2017 Chateau Canon is not merely an exercise in acquiring luxury; it is an affirmation of nature's ability to overcome adversity. For connoisseurs and investors alike, it represents a strategic addition to one's cellar — exemplary for its immediate approachability yet promising extended rewards upon maturation.
Consistent Excellence Amidst Seasonal Challenges
With each tasting, I am reminded how masterful vinification can coax forth beauty from difficulty, a testament to Chateau Canon's virtuosic prowess. Those who seek to broaden their investment portfolio with an exemplar from an often misunderstood vintage would do well to contemplate the merit held within bottles such as these—a resounding triumph for 2017 in Bordeaux.
Indeed, as we weave through each year's climatic tapestry, wines like the 2017 Chateau Canon cement their stature not only through intrinsic quality but also through the narration of history’s complexities imbibed within their pours.
Market price (GBP)
£570.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
38
Scores and tasting notes
This is very focused and fresh with limestone and crushed-stone character. Medium to full body, integrated tannins and a salty finish. Shows lots of minerality already. Umami licorice undertones.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com
A very pretty, slightly high-pitched version, featuring sleek cherry, cassis and damson plum fruit racing through, picking up light savory and mineral notes. The minerality blooms through the finish, with a floral gilding adding a sparkly effect on the long, unencumbered finish.—J.M.
Wine Spectator - James Molesworth - winespectator.com
A rich, explosive wine, the 2017 Canon exudes class from the very first taste. Huge aromatics resonate through to the palate, where the wine is deep, fleshy and beautifully layered. Effortless and gracious, Canon is a wine of real pedigree. I don't think the 2017 will reach the dizzying heights of the 2015 or 2016, but it will be interesting to see how close it gets.
Antonio Galloni - Antonio Galloni - vinous.com - May '18
The deep purple-black colored 2017 Canon offers-up intense notes of crushed blackberries, black cherries and warm cassis with touches of fertile loam, yeast extract, beef drippings and iron ore plus a waft of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied with great freshness and firm, rounded tannins, it's very earthy in the mouth, finishing long and mineral-laced. A very serious wine, it is also fun, bright and vivacious and should age impressively.
Wine Advocate - Lisa Perrotti-Brown - robertparker.com
The 2017 Canon was picked 4 to 21 September and 22 to 27 September for the Merlot and Cabernet Franc at 42hl/ha and matured in 56% new oak. There is 14.0° alcohol this year and the pH comes in at 3.66. This takes a little time to open, eventually revealing blackberry, briary, crushed stone and light iris scents. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and good backbone. Strangely, it reminds me a little of modern-day Figeac, that Cabernet component smaller here but very expressive with touches of graphite and flint towards the linear but beguilingly fresh finish. I like the manner in which the limestone shines through the wine here, something noticeable in recent vintages. Whilst not the sensational 2015 or 2016, it is a damn fine Saint-Émilion that will settle at the top of my banded score.
Neal Martin - Neal Martin - vinous.com - May '18