Château Canon

Château Canon is one of the historic wine estates of Saint-Émilion, set just outside the walls of the old town on the limestone plateau, and it is among the properties at the top of the appellation's classification. It holds the rank of Premier Grand Cru Classé, the level just below the very highest, in the classification that is reviewed every ten years or so, and its reputation rests on the elegant, finely structured wines made from vines growing on the clay and limestone soils of the plateau. The name goes back to the eighteenth century, when the estate belonged to a man called Jacques Kanon, and the name has been used ever since. In recent decades, the property has been owned by the Wertheimer family, who also own the fashion house of Chanel, and who have invested heavily in the vineyards and the cellars.

The vineyard is notable in its own right. It lies on a slope immediately next to the town, partly enclosed by an old wall, in a position that is said to give the vines a favourable exposure and shelter, and the soils vary from clay on the upper parts to limestone beneath. Merlot is the main grape, with a good proportion of Cabernet Franc, and the combination gives wines that are rich but fresh, with notes of red fruit, spice and a mineral edge. The estate has been working to improve its vineyards and to farm in a way that respects the soil, and visitors can see the vines up close.

The visit is arranged through guided tours that usually begin with a walk among the vines, followed by a look at the cellars, where the barrels and tanks are kept, and then a tasting of the wines. The buildings include the old château, which stands among the vines, and an underground network of cellars cut into the limestone, which are among the oldest in the area. Tours are generally by appointment, with set hours, and visitors must be adults, since wine is served. It is wise to book well in advance, particularly in the summer and at harvest time, and to arrange transport so that no one has to drive after tasting.

The estate lies next to the town of Saint-Émilion, so it combines naturally with a visit to the old centre. The Monolithic Church, carved from the rock, the Tour du Roy, the Cloître des Cordeliers and the Vineyards of Saint-Émilion all lie within a short walk or drive, and the Château de Figeac is another famous estate in the appellation. The town and its vineyards are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The visit suits wine lovers and those interested in how great wine is made. Allow one to two hours.