Kanonkop Pinotage 2019, Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, South Africa

Kanonkop Estate is situated on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain in the Stellenbosch Region of the Cape and confidently boasts with some of South Africa’s most premium wines. The vineyards range between 197 and 395 feet above sea level. The majority of the vineyards are situated on southwest-facing slopes. The soils are predominantly red decomposed granite with a high clay content and excellent water retention capacity. Kanonkop’s Pinotage vines were some of the first to be established commercially in the Cape. Age of vines – 32-66 year old bush vines. Vintage conditions: 2019: The carry-over effect of the previous three year’s drought was still visible in this vintage, despite the higher rainfall during the season, and it delivered a smaller crop, but of high quality. Despite the relative low water stress, the cool weather contributed to smaller berries, and less irrigation was needed in this growing season. Winemaking / Maturation: Fermented in open top concrete fermenters at 280C. The floating skins were punched down by hand, every 2 hours during fermentation. The juice was drawn off the skins after 3 days. After malolactic fermentation the wine was matured for 16 months in 80% new and 20% second fill 225L French Nevers oak barrels. Tasting notes: Vibrant aromas of blueberries, ripe plums, black cherries, cinnamon and vanilla on the nose. The palate is sultry and luxurious, with densely packed flavors of berry compote, wild bramble, plum tart and spicy Christmas cake. Ripe tannins are beautifully intertwined between the layers of fruit, adding a dense and broad texture to the wine. The subtle spicy tones and plush black cherry flavors on the lingering finish completes a very elegant and age worthy wine.