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Introduction
The 2015 Château Gaby "Princess Gaby" from Canon-Fronsac in Bordeaux is an elegant and expressive Right Bank blend, showcasing the region’s characteristic richness and finesse. Château Gaby is known for producing Merlot-dominant wines with depth, structure, and a touch of Bordeaux’s classic minerality. The 2015 vintage was a standout year in Bordeaux, and "Princess Gaby" reflects the ripeness, balance, and concentration that this vintage provided.
Terrior
The Canon-Fronsac appellation in Bordeaux’s Right Bank is situated on rolling limestone hills along the Dordogne River. The vineyard’s clay-limestone soils are ideal for Merlot, providing good water retention and promoting deep root growth, which results in wines with complexity and minerality. The climate is temperate, with warm summers and mild winters, allowing for slow and even ripening, which enhances the wine's balance and structure.
Appearance
Deep ruby with garnet edges, showcasing the wine’s maturity and concentration. The wine is clear with medium-high viscosity, indicating a full-bodied and structured profile.
Nose
The nose is complex and inviting, with aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and blackberry, layered with notes of violet, cedar, and a hint of earthy minerality. Subtle undertones of leather, tobacco, and cocoa reflect the wine’s Right Bank origins and aging in oak barrels, adding depth and sophistication.
Palate
Medium to full-bodied with a silky texture, the palate delivers rich flavors of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and red plum, balanced by savory elements of graphite, dried herbs, and a touch of spice. The tannins are fine-grained and well-integrated, providing a solid backbone while remaining smooth. The wine's acidity is bright, adding freshness and balance, making the fruit flavors shine while enhancing its food-friendly nature.
Finish
The finish is long and refined, with lingering notes of dark fruit, mineral undertones, and a hint of toasted oak. The balance of acidity and tannin structure leaves a lasting impression, showcasing the wine’s aging potential and elegance.
Overall Impression
The 2015 Château Gaby "Princess Gaby" is a beautifully crafted wine that captures the essence of Canon-Fronsac with its harmony of fruit, earthiness, and structure. This wine is enjoyable now but has the potential to evolve over the next 5–8 years, making it versatile for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, duck confit, and aged cheeses, embodying the charm and elegance of Bordeaux’s Right Bank.
Published Rankings
Wine Enthusiast Rating: 91
James Suckling Rating: 92
Robert Parker Rating: 90
Vinous Rating: 91
Jeb Dunnuck Rating:
Decanter Ranking: 90
Wine Spectator: 90
Wine Enthusiast: 91
Published Awards and Recognition
Awarded a Silver Medal at the 2018 Decanter World Wine Awards; featured in Wine Enthusiast’s "Best of Right Bank Bordeaux"; recommended as a "Top Value Bordeaux" by James Suckling.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Château Gaby
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Canon-Fronsac, Bordeaux
Grape Varietals: Predominantly Merlot, with Cabernet Franc and a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2015
Wine Style: Dry Red
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve fruit purity; aged in French oak barrels (30% new) for 12-18 months to add complexity and integrate tannins
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork