Kanonkop Pinotage 2020, 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: 2020: The preceding winter had sufficient rain and cold units. Throughout the harvesting period the weather remained favorable, with relatively warm days, no significant heatwaves and cool night temperatures. Winemaking / Maturation: Fermented in open top concrete fermenters at 28 degrees C. 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 18 months in 80% new and 20% second fill 225L French Nevers oak barrels. Tasting notes: Bright purple-red color. Bold aromas of plums, blackberries, hints of liquorice and tar, layers of smoke, roasted nuts and rich vanilla on the nose. The palate is packed with flavors of plums, cherries, black figs, dark chocolate, blackberries and spicy oak. The beautifully integrated plush, creamy tannins with satisfying acidity result in a wonderfully balanced wine with a long finish, promising great maturation potential.

$53.99