Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Stellenbosch region, specifically the Simonsberg sub-region, is the heart of South Africa’s premium wine production. Located just outside Cape Town, Stellenbosch enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm days and cool nights, which are essential for slow and even grape ripening. This region’s proximity to both mountain ranges and the Atlantic Ocean results in a unique microclimate that significantly influences the quality of the fruit.

The vineyards at Kanonkop lie on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain, which is known for its decomposed granite soils. These soils provide excellent drainage while also allowing the vine roots to dig deep, producing small but intensely flavored berries. The dry-farmed vines, which average 30 years of age, yield around 4 tons per hectare, focusing on quality over quantity. This low yield, combined with careful vineyard management, ensures that only the finest grapes are used in the production of Paul Sauer.

Winemaking

Kanonkop Paul Sauer is crafted from a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Cabernet Franc, and 14% Merlot, a composition that mirrors the finest traditions of Bordeaux. The grapes are fermented in open-top concrete fermenters at 29°C, with manual punch-downs performed every two hours. This labor-intensive process ensures gentle extraction of color, flavor, and tannins, contributing to the wine's richness and structure.

After fermentation, the wine is separated from the skins and undergoes malolactic fermentation. It is then aged for 24 months in 100% new French Nevers oak barrels, a choice that imparts subtle nuances of cedar, spice, and vanilla while maintaining the wine's fruit-driven character. With a production volume of only 6,700 cases, Kanonkop Paul Sauer is both a collector’s item and a superb example of the estate's winemaking prowess.

Tasting Notes

• Color: A saturated, deep ruby red, promising richness and intensity.
• Aroma: Layers of tilled earth, herbal notes (bouquet garni), and vibrant red and black currants emerge from the glass, accented by hints of cedar and oak spice.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is refined yet powerful, with elegant tannins supporting a core of dark fruit. The judicious use of new oak enhances the wine's structure without overwhelming the complex fruit flavors. The finish is long, youthful, and poised, indicating exceptional ageing potential.

Did you know?

The Kanonkop Estate has a rich history, with its roots stretching back over a century. The wine is named after Paul Sauer, a key figure in both the estate's and South Africa's political history. Paul Sauer served as a member of Parliament and was highly influential in promoting agriculture and viticulture in the country. His legacy lives on in this wine, which has become a symbol of Stellenbosch’s winemaking excellence. The name Kanonkop itself refers to a hill (kop) where a cannon (kanon) was historically fired to signal the arrival of ships in Table Bay, connecting the estate to the early history of Cape Town.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Ribeye Steak: The robust tannins and dark fruit notes of the wine are a perfect match for the richness of a well-marbled steak, while the oak influence echoes the smoky, charred flavors from the grill.
• Beef Bourguignon: The wine’s earthy complexity complements the savory depth of this classic French stew, while its bright fruit lifts the richness of the dish.
• Roast Leg of Lamb: The wine’s tannins cut through the fat of the lamb, while its herbal and cedar notes echo the flavors of garlic and rosemary traditionally used in the preparation.
• Aged Gouda: The nutty, caramelized flavors of a well-aged Gouda pair beautifully with the wine's ripe fruit and subtle oak, creating a perfect balance of richness and acidity.

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.