Croix Canon, St Emilion, Grand Cru, 2016
Croix Canon hails from an 11 hectare vineyard bordering the property, in the foothills of the plateau of Saint-Emilion (south west of the Chateau). The vat house and cellars of this second wine are located in a former 12th century chapel. Since Nicolas Audebert and team have been at the helm, we've witnessed a gradual refinement here. We believe Croix Canon represents one of the best value early drinking St Emilions you can find. Tasted after the very impressive Berliquet, this lacks the intensity and precision of its neighbour, but it is a beautifully put together wine. Honest, relaxed, charming; everything is in harmony. Refined, delicate and vibrant, it should knit together and drink well in its youth.
critic reviews
The 2016 Croix Canon is a blend of 76% Merlot and 24% Cabernet Franc this year and matured in 25% new oak. It has a very precise bouquet with blackcurrant, touches of blueberry and subtle mineral aromas, gaining intensity as it opens in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, very tensile in the mouth with touches of graphite and tobacco, seguing into a supple and refined finish. It seems very approachable at this stage, but even as a Deuxieme Vin, I can see this aging nicely over a decade, possibly more.