critic reviews
The 2020 Canon-la-Gaffelière is higher-toned on the nose than its peers, glossy with bold notes of black cherries and licorice. The palate is very ripe and sweet, with comparatively lower acidity, layers of rich black fruit and a velvety smooth, hoisin-tinged finish. It's a bit brash, although it will appeal to those seeking hedonism in their Right Bank 2020s. I'm not sure how representative this bottle is vis-à-vis previous showings, so I will seek to taste this again later. I tasted it blind at the annual Southwold tasting.
A blend of 50% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2020 Canon la Gaffeliere offers up inviting aromas of dark berries, plums, burning embers, rose petals, incense and bay leaf. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and layered, it's suave and perfumed, with melting, powdery tannins and a vibrant core of fruit. As ever, the elevated percentage of Cabernet Franc lends it a singular and compelling style.