Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Stellenbosch region, specifically the Simonsberg sub-region, is recognized as a premier area for producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon. Located in the Western Cape of South Africa, the vineyards benefit from the cooling influence of the nearby Atlantic Ocean, which helps to moderate the warm summer temperatures. This allows for slow, even ripening, enhancing the development of complex flavors and firm tannins in the grapes.

The Kanonkop estate, situated on the lower slopes of Simonsberg Mountain, enjoys a unique terroir of decomposed granite soils, interspersed with Hutton and Clovelly types. These well-drained soils are ideal for growing dry-farmed Cabernet Sauvignon, forcing the vines to develop deep roots, resulting in concentrated flavors and natural balance. The vines used for this wine average 29 years in age, which contributes to the wine's complexity and depth.

Winemaking

This vintage experienced cooler growing conditions with regular rainfall, which led to an extended ripening period and reduced water stress in the vineyards. This slow maturation allowed the grapes to develop intense flavors and balanced acidity.

Fermentation was carried out in open-top concrete fermenters at 29°C, with the skins being punched down by hand every two hours to ensure full extraction of color, tannins, and flavor. After five days, the juice was drawn off the skins and underwent malolactic fermentation. The wine was then aged for 24 months in 225-liter French oak barrels, with a mix of 50% new and 50% second-fill Nevers oak, giving the wine structure and an integrated oak character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep, rich ruby with a garnet rim, indicating its youthful intensity.
• Aroma: Complex aromas of blackberry, cassis, and tobacco are complemented by hints of cedar, spice, and a subtle touch of fresh fynbos.
• Palate: The palate is full and mouth-filling, with concentrated flavors of blackcurrant and black cherries, framed by oak spice and a touch of roasted nuts. The tannins are firm yet finely integrated, providing excellent structure for further aging.

Did you know?

Kanonkop is often referred to as South Africa’s First Growth, akin to the Bordeaux classification system. The estate has been producing some of the country’s most iconic wines for over a century. The name "Kanonkop" refers to a hill from which a cannon was fired in the 17th century to signal that trading ships were approaching Cape Town.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Ribeye Steak: The robust tannins and dark fruit notes of the wine complement the rich, fatty flavors of a perfectly grilled ribeye.
• Slow-cooked Venison: The gamey flavors of venison find harmony with the wine’s depth of fruit and spice, while the firm tannins balance the dish’s richness.
• Braised Beef Short Ribs: The supple texture of the wine pairs beautifully with the tender, savory character of braised beef, enhancing the umami and meaty flavors.
• Matured Hard Cheeses: The wine’s complexity and oak influence make it an ideal partner for aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or a well-aged cheddar.

History of Kanonkop Estate

Kanonkop’s history dates back to the early 20th century when the farm was first acquired by Paul Sauer, who later became a leading figure in South African wine. The name “Kanonkop” refers to the hill (kop) from which a cannon (kanon) was fired in the 17th century to signal the arrival of ships in Table Bay. This historical connection highlights the estate’s deep roots in South Africa’s history.

For generations, the Sauer family has owned and managed the estate, with a focus on producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Simonsberg. Under the leadership of Abrie Beeslaar, the estate’s celebrated winemaker, Kanonkop has become synonymous with world-class Pinotage and has garnered numerous international accolades.

Region and Vineyards

Kanonkop is situated in the Simonsberg sub-region of Stellenbosch, an area famed for its ability to produce wines of great depth and complexity. The estate’s bush vines, many of which are between 30 and 70 years old, are planted on soils composed of decomposed granite and Hutton. These soils, along with the dry-farming practices employed at Kanonkop, result in low yields of concentrated fruit that give the wines their intense flavors.

The Simonsberg Mountain influences the estate’s microclimate, with cooler ocean breezes moderating the warm temperatures, allowing for slow ripening of the grapes. This balance between warm days and cool nights helps retain the grapes’ natural acidity, producing wines with both power and elegance.

Wine Range

Kanonkop’s wine range is focused on Pinotage and Bordeaux-style blends, both of which have garnered critical acclaim over the years. Their wines are known for their ageing potential and ability to reflect the terroir of the Simonsberg region.

• Pinotage: Kanonkop’s flagship wine, produced from old bush vines and aged in French oak. The estate’s Pinotage is revered as one of the finest examples of this South African variety, known for its rich dark fruit, spicy oak, and elegant tannins.
• Paul Sauer: A Bordeaux-style blend named after the estate’s founder. This wine is crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, offering a powerful yet refined structure with flavors of blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco.
• Kadette: A more accessible range that includes both Pinotage and Bordeaux blends, offering excellent value while maintaining the estate’s signature quality and style.

Did you know?

Kanonkop is often referred to as the "First Lady of South African wine," due to its pivotal role in establishing South Africa as a global wine producer. The estate’s Pinotage vines are among the oldest in the world, and the estate has been at the forefront of elevating the status of this unique South African varietal on the international stage.