Kanonkop

Kanonkop is one of South Africa’s most iconic wine estates, known for producing some of the finest Pinotage and Bordeaux-style blends in the country. Located in the renowned Simonsberg region of Stellenbosch, this historic estate has been a cornerstone of South African winemaking for over a century.

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.