Kanonkop Pinotage 2021

Region and Vineyards

Kanonkop is located on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain in the famous Stellenbosch wine region, an area renowned for its top-tier wines. The dry-farmed bush vines, aged between 32 and 67 years, are planted on decomposed granite and Hutton soils, which provide excellent drainage and force the vines to dig deep for nutrients. This struggle results in low yields of only 5 tons per hectare, leading to highly concentrated, flavor-packed grapes.

The Simonsberg area benefits from a unique microclimate where cooler ocean breezes temper the summer heat, helping to preserve the natural acidity of the grapes. The growing season was marked by cooler conditions, producing wines with a more elegant structure and softer tannins, making them accessible at an earlier age while still offering great ageing potential.

Winemaking

This vintage began with uneven budding and fruit set due to warmer winter periods, but the soil moisture remained sufficient throughout the growing season, resulting in minimal vine stress. Harvest was delayed, contributing to the cool climate character of this vintage.

The wine was fermented in open-top concrete fermenters at 28°C, with the skins punched down by hand every two hours to ensure optimal extraction of color and flavor. After three days, the juice was drained off the skins, and the wine underwent malolactic fermentation.

The wine was then matured for 18 months in 80% new and 20% second-fill French Nevers oak barrels, adding layers of complexity and integrating the tannins beautifully with the fruit.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright red with a vibrant purple hue.
• Aroma: Bold aromas of plum and blackberry, complemented by notes of licorice, smoke, roasted nuts, and vanilla.
• Palate: The palate reveals concentrated flavors of plums, black and red cherries, dark chocolate, and spicy oak. The wine has ripe tannins, balanced by refreshing acidity, resulting in a harmonious wine with a long, satisfying finish.

Did you know?

Kanonkop’s Pinotage vines, some of which are over 60 years old, are among the oldest in South Africa. The estate is often regarded as one of the pioneers of Pinotage, and their meticulous dry-farming techniques help maintain the character and intensity of this iconic variety.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Spicy Asian-style dishes: The bold fruit and spice elements of the wine complement the heat and aromatic complexity of Asian spices.
• Aromatic curries: The wine’s ripe tannins and fruit-forward profile balance the richness and spice of curry dishes.
• Venison meat: Game meats with their rich flavors pair well with the depth and dark fruit character of the Pinotage.
• Seared game fish: The wine’s acidity and fruit notes harmonize with the smoky flavors of seared fish.

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.