A Stellar Vintage: 2019 Pinotage Kanonkop Review

About Kanonkop Wine Estate

is a prestigious, fourth-generation winery located in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. Established in 1910, it has a rich heritage and is widely regarded as one of the country’s most iconic and acclaimed producers. The estate is nestled on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain, benefiting from the unique terroir and favorable climate of the region.

The winery is primarily known for its production of red wines, particularly its renowned Pinotage. Pinotage is a grape variety that is indigenous to South Africa, and Kanonkop has played a significant role in elevating its reputation both locally and internationally. The estate’s commitment to crafting exceptional Pinotage wines has garnered them numerous accolades and a loyal following.

The Vineyards & Grape Varieties

Kanonkop’s vineyards span over 100 hectares, featuring a variety of grape varietals. In addition to Pinotage, the estate cultivates classic Bordeaux varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. These vineyards are meticulously tended to, ensuring the grapes achieve optimal ripeness and express the unique characteristics of the terroir.

Many of Kanonkop’s Pinotage vines are over 50 years old, and because of this, critics often refer to the winery as part of South Africa’s “first growth” estates.

Winemaking

The winemaking philosophy at Kanonkop is deeply rooted in tradition and craftsmanship, and under the purview of winemaker Abrie Beeslaar, the estate continues to garner praise around the world.

Using a combination of modern techniques and traditional vineyard practices, the grapes are carefully hand-harvested and sorted to ensure only the best fruit is used in the winemaking process. Oak aging is an integral part of Kanonkop’s winemaking approach, with the wines spending time in a combination of new and used French oak barrels to enhance their complexity and structure.

Abrie, who has been Kanonkop’s winemaker for over 20 years, has garnered a number of 90+ ratings from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, Beeslaar was named the 2008 International Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine and Spirits Competition in London,

What critics have to say about Kanonkop

Kanonkop’s wines are renowned for their elegance, finesse, and age-worthiness. Whether it’s their flagship Pinotage, their Bordeaux blends, or their single-varietal wines, each bottle from Kanonkop represents the dedication and passion of the winemaking team. The wines often exhibit a harmonious balance between fruit, acidity, and tannins, showcasing the potential of South African wines on the global stage.

The estate’s commitment to excellence has earned it numerous accolades and recognition, both locally and internationally. Kanonkop wines have received high ratings from esteemed wine critics and have been featured on prestigious wine lists and in renowned publications.

One of the most popular wine tastings in Stellenbosch

Visiting Kanonkop offers an opportunity to experience the winery’s rich history and picturesque surroundings. The estate welcomes guests for tastings and tours, providing insight into their winemaking process and allowing visitors to sample their exceptional wines in a beautiful setting, including views of the Simonsberg mountains.

Pinotage: South Africa’s Very Interesting Black Grape

Pinotage may bring to mind a wine that resembles an elegant Pinot Noir, but this South African grape has a completely different taste profile than Burgundy’s famous red grape.

Pinotage was created by crossing light, bright Cinsault, a grape often used in Rhone to craft red blends and increasingly in “chillable” red wines, and Pinot Noir. Pinotage wines can be highly tannic and exhibit a sense black color in the glass.