Kanonkop Wine Estate : Cabernet Sauvignon 2016

The richness and freshness of a South African red wine

The estate

Founded in 1910 by the Sauer family, the family-owned Kanonkop Wine Estate takes its name from a famous hillock (kop) on Simonsberg Mountain from which a cannon shot (Kanon) was fired in the 17th and 18th centuries to signal the approach of sailing ships to Table Bay, so that local farmers could then come to the port 50 kilometres away and sell their fruit and vegetable produce.

The estate's first wines were made in 1973 under the impetus of Paul Sauer, a politician who was part of the South African parliament for 41 years, whose ambition was to produce fine South African wines.

Under the leadership of the brothers Johann and Paul Krige, the fourth generation continues to produce wines that are recognised beyond the country’s borders for their pure and refined expression of the identity of Stellenbosch, the emblematic appellation of the Western Cape region.

The vineyard

This 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon by Kanonkop Wine Estate is a Western Cape wine made from the Simonsberg and Stellenbosch vineyards. The vines are 27 years old on average and sit on soils that are partly composed of decomposed granite.

The vintage

2016 was a year characterised by hot and dry conditions throughout the growing season. In spite of this climate, the vintage exudes an enticing freshness.

Vinification and ageing

Fermentation in concrete vats with regular manual punching down. Maceration for five days before malolactic fermentation. Aged for 24 months in French oak barrels (50% new, 50% second-fill barrels).

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (100%).

Kanonkop Wine Estate’s Cabernet Sauvignon 2016: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour
The wine showcases a beautiful ruby colour.

Nose
The intense and complex nose blends fragrances of blackcurrant, fennel, cigar box, tea leaf and fynbos, a typical South African shrub.

Palate
The refined and fresh palate reveals fine tannins as well as delicious liquorice notes.

Cellaring

This South African red wine can be cellared until around 2031.

Food and wine pairing

This Western Cape red wine will complement steaks, beef and lamb stews.