Canon-la-Gaffelière is one of the most acclaimed, most lauded Châteaux on the Right Bank. This storied estate is very traditional in the cellar, fermenting only in large oak tanks (no steel) and aging in barrique, about 50% new, for 16-18 months before bottling without any fining. They've also led the way in organic farming, achieving certification a decade ago, and are true stewards of the land and the terroir of Saint-Emilion. Setting them apart from their neighbors is their high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, which comprise about half of the blend along with the region's dominant grape Merlot.

2018 was an excellent vintage, warm and dry, and this is a classically exceptional showing from Gaffelière. Hand harvested, fermented slowly with a 35 day maceration, and aged for 16 months in barrel. Serve at 60-65 degrees in a Bordeaux stem, after a good decant of an hour plus, and enjoy classic notes of black cherry, cassis, cedar, cigar box, purple plum, mint, graphite, and earthy minerals. Though enjoyable now, it is an ideal candidate for 10-15 plus years in the cellar.