Château Canon La Gaffeliere St. Emilion 2017

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Canon la Gaffeliere comes roaring out of the glass with exuberant notes of baked blackberries, blueberry compote and redcurrant jelly plus hints of forest floor, dried roses and cedar chest with a waft of fallen leaves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has fantastic density with a firm frame of finely grained tannins and tons of freshness, finishing with lingering layers of bright, energetic fruit.

The 2017 Canon La Gaffelière is another highlight in this range from Stephan von Neipperg. Bright, floral and punchy, the 2017 impresses for its energy and drive. Dried rose petal, mint, sage, tobacco, cedar and licorice add pretty top notes to this highly nuanced, layered Saint-Émilion. The Cabernet Franc is so expressive here. Quite simply, the 2017 is a wine of pure and total finesse. Tasted two times.

This open wine brings out delicious black-currant fruits as well as the essential core of dark tannins. The solid backbone will stand the wine in good stead as it matures, softening the juicy, forward fruitiness. Drink from 2023.

Features a deliciously ripe and inviting core of plum, boysenberry and blackberry compote flavors, backed by anise and apple wood notes. Juicy in feel through the finish, with the fruit lingering. Tobacco and iron accents wait in reserve. Cellar for maximum effect. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2022 through 2038.

Incorporating plenty of second-generation grapes, the deep purple-hued 2017 Chateau Canon-La-Gaffeliere checks in as 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. It's a fresher, racier Saint-Emilion that has good acidity, fine tannins, and medium body, yet good concentration and balance. Give this outstanding 2017 4-6 years, and it will keep for at least two decades.