Smaller than Fronsac, the Canon-Fronsac Appellation occupies higher and steeper terrain. The resulting wines are stronger and more substantial.
Close to and above the neighbouring Fronsac AOC, Canon Fronsac overlooks the point where the Dordogne and the Isle rivers meet. Here too, the river water cools the air in the summer, and warms it in the spring, much to the benefit of the vines.
The steep slopes that are characteristic of the Appellation, called “Côte de Canon”, are the symbol of this AOC. It is composed of clay-limestone over banks of compact limestone.
Over the last 100 years, the winegrowers of Canon Fronsac have completely changed the types of vines planted. Malbec used to be planted on the hills of these two Appellations. But when it was proven scientifically that Merlot was better suited to these clay limestone soils, the producers adopted it (70% of vines planted). Cabernet-Franc and Cabernet-Sauvignon are equally represented at 15% each of vines planted.
Canon Fronsac wines have a dark ruby colour with purplish hints, which turns garnet with age. They have a concentrated nose, with notes of raspberry, strawberry, red currents that develop into stewed prunes, leather, and mocha with time.
Fronsac's cousins, they have even more depth and consistency in the mouth, with a frank and powerful attack. With a generous and opulent texture, their finish is long, intense and velvety. But only 300 ha of vines produce this nectar.
Average yearly production: 12 210 Hl
Surface declared (2009): 260 Ha
Visit the Canon Fronsac appellation’s web site.
