France · Bordeaux

Chateau Canon la Gaffeliere

Chateau Canon La Gaffelière is a Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé B estate covering approximately 19.5 hectares on the lower slopes and sandy-clay soils at the foot of the Saint-Émilion limestone plateau. Acquired by Stephan von Neipperg of the German noble family in 1985, the estate underwent a fundamental transformation: yields were dramatically reduced, harvesting was delayed, and the property moved to organic and biodynamic practices that were still rare in Bordeaux at the time. Von Neipperg also owns La Mondotte and Clos de l'Oratoire, creating a portfolio of Right Bank estates with a shared philosophy of concentration and precision. Canon La Gaffelière's blend is approximately 55% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon — a high Cab Franc proportion that adds structural backbone and aromatic complexity to the estate's rich, velvety style. Parker awarded 98 points to the 2000 and 2009 vintages, and 95–97 points are routine across strong years. With 676 lots averaging $112 per bottle, the estate is more auction-accessible than Pétrus or Ausone but competes on critical standing with the best Premier Grand Cru Classé B properties. Older vintages from von Neipperg's tenure — particularly the 1998, 2000, and 2009 — attract the most competitive bidding.