Clos Canon - St. Emilion

An Atherton Wine Imports Exclusive

Clos Canon is the second wine of 1er Grand Cru Classe Chateau Canon, one of the most highly regarded properties in St. Emilion. Robert Parker declares that Canon is one of only two vineyards in the Cotes of St. Emilion that can match the “complexity and sheer class of Ausone.”(Bordeaux, 4th Ed.) Kolasa, who also directs operations at Rauzan Segla, has raised the level of quality even higher over the last few vintages. Wine Spectator says: “Canon is clearly back on top and making excellent wines nearly every vintage.” (3/31/04)

The Wine Spectator gave the 2000 vintage 90 points. "Lovely combination of berry, spice wood and tobacco on the nose follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with medium tannins and a medium chewy finish. Almost too good for a second wine." (www.winespectator.com 2003)

The firm of Chanel purchased the property in the mid-1990s and has made a large investment to renovate the cellar and purchase high-quality, new oak barrels. Look for the quality to improve even more during the coming years.

Quick Facts:

• Name: Derived from the 18th century wall that encloses the vineyard of Chateau Canon
• Grapes: From young vines and some lots not selected for the Grand Vin. Merlot (approx. 75%) and Cabernet Franc (approx. 25%)
• Soil: Clay and Limestone
• Harvesting: Hand picked, sorted and 100% de-stemmed
• Fermentation: In thermo-regulated oak vats
• Maceration: 18-23 days between 29 and 32 degrees Celsius
• Ageing: 100% in one year old oak barrels for 18-20 months
• Fining/Filtering: Fined in barrel with fresh egg whites; unfiltered
• Optimum Drinking: Approachable young, but usually best after 2-3 years of cellaring