Overview
Croix Canon expresses a distinct Saint-Émilion terroir through Château Canon’s second wine. The 2019 combines Merlot’s generous plum and cherry fruit with the structure and aromatic detail of Cabernet Franc, offering a polished Bordeaux red with freshness and a mineral finish.
The wine comes from a dedicated site formerly belonging to Château Matras, below the Saint-Émilion plateau. Made by the Canon team, it is an individual expression of place rather than simply a lesser version of the grand vin.
Vintage & Winemaking
The 2019 season began with a mild winter and cool spring, followed by an exceptionally hot, dry summer. Fine early-autumn weather gave way to some rain in late September. Croix Canon’s blend is 77% Merlot and 23% Cabernet Franc. The wine was matured for 18 months with 30% new barrels. Its dedicated vinification facilities occupy La Chapelle de Mazerat.
Product Highlights
| Producer |
Château Canon |
| Wine |
Croix Canon |
| Vintage |
2019 |
| Region |
Bordeaux |
| Subregion |
Saint-Émilion Grand Cru |
| Country |
France |
| Variety |
77% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc |
| Closure |
Cork |
| Volume |
750ml |
| Cellaring |
Drink after 2025, according to James Suckling |
| Style |
Dry red wine |
- Château Canon’s second wine, drawn from a dedicated terroir.
- 94 points from both James Suckling and Decanter.
- Vinified at the historic La Chapelle de Mazerat.
- Ripe fruit and a polished texture balanced by a chalky mineral character.
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Deep, dark red.
Aroma
Plum and cherry fruit are complemented by dried flowers, cedar and subtle spice.
Palate
Generous and finely textured, with ripe dark fruit, supple tannins and balancing freshness.
Finish
Long and composed, with a chalky, stony undertone.
Food Pairing
- Roast duck with thyme.
- Herb-crusted lamb rack.
- Beef fillet with mushrooms.
- Braised pork shoulder.
- Aged hard cheeses.
Serving Temperature: 16–18°C.
Cellaring Potential
The wine has reached James Suckling’s recommended starting point for drinking. Its fruit concentration and finely structured palate support enjoyment now with aeration, while allowing further development in suitable cellar conditions.
Recommended Drinking Window: From 2026, following James Suckling’s recommendation to drink after 2025. (Drinking Window 2021-2045)
Critic Scores & Reviews
| Critic |
Score |
| James Suckling — January 2022 |
94/100 |
| Georgina Hindle, Decanter — January 2022 |
94/100 |
| Antonio Galloni, Vinous — January 2022 |
92/100 |
“It’s finely textured and long.” — James Suckling, January 2022.