Kanonkop Wine Estate : Paul Sauer 2019

A South African red wine that harmoniously blends complexity and precision

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

Paul Sauer 2019 by Kanonkop Wine Estate is a Western Cape wine made from the Simonsberg and Stellenbosch vineyards. The vines are 30 years old on average and are planted in soils composed partly of decomposed granite.

The vintage

2019 follows three particularly dry years. Despite the heavy rainfall throughout this year and relatively cool conditions, yields remain low and the grapes showcased a high quality.

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 (100% new).

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (75%)
Cabernet Franc (14%)
Merlot (11%)

Kanonkop Wine Estate’s 2019 Paul Sauer Cuvée: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour
This wine showcases a beautiful ruby colour.

Nose
The complex nose gives off spicy (nutmeg), floral (bouquet garni), woody (cedar) and fruity (red and black fruit) notes.

Palate
The elegant and structured palate is seduced by this wine’s precise tannins, its fruity structure and its lingering finish.

Cellaring

This South African red wine can be cellared until around 2039-2044.

Food and wine pairing

This Western Cape red wine is ideal with steaks, meat stews, roast leg of lamb and mature cheeses.