When it comes to South African wine royalty, one name reigns supreme: Kanonkop. Situated in the heart of Stellenbosch, this historic winery has become synonymous with Pinotage, South Africa’s signature grape variety.
With a legacy built on craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation, Kanonkop has cemented its place as the undisputed King of Pinotage, producing some of the world’s most sought-after wines.
A Legacy Rooted in Excellence
Kanonkop’s story dates back to the 1920s, when the Sauer family planted their first vineyards on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch. The name Kanonkop, meaning "Cannon Hill," refers to a nearby hill where, during the 17th and 18th centuries, cannons were fired to signal the arrival of trading ships in Table Bay.
Over the decades, Kanonkop has built a reputation for producing powerful, complex, and age-worthy wines, with a particular focus on red varieties. But it is their mastery of Pinotage that has made them a global benchmark for this uniquely South African grape.
Pinotage: A South African Icon
Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, was created in 1925 by Professor Abraham Perold in an attempt to combine the elegance of Pinot Noir with the robustness of Cinsault. While the variety has had a mixed reputation over the years, Kanonkop has been instrumental in proving that Pinotage can produce world-class wines with depth, structure, and longevity.
At Kanonkop, Pinotage is treated with the same level of care and respect as the great wines of Bordeaux and Burgundy. The estate’s old, unirrigated bush vines produce low yields and intensely concentrated fruit, resulting in wines that are rich, bold, and built to age.
The Wines of Kanonkop
Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage
This flagship wine is a limited-production masterpiece, sourced from vines over 60 years old. With deep flavors of blackberries, plums, and dark chocolate, complemented by a refined structure and silky tannins, it showcases the absolute pinnacle of Pinotage.
Kanonkop Estate Pinotage
Often referred to as the gold standard for Pinotage, this wine is known for its powerful yet elegant character. Notes of ripe cherries, mocha, and spice develop beautifully over time, making it one of the most age-worthy Pinotage wines in the world.
Kanonkop Paul Sauer
A Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, Paul Sauer is one of South Africa’s most acclaimed wines. It has repeatedly received 100-point ratings and competes with the finest Bordeaux wines on the global stage.
Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage
This accessible, fruit-forward Pinotage is perfect for those looking to explore the grape. It delivers juicy flavors of raspberries, strawberries, and spice, with a smooth, easy-drinking finish.
The Winemaking Philosophy
At Kanonkop, winemaking is an art form rooted in tradition. The estate follows time-honored methods, including open-top concrete fermentation tanks (a technique used for over 100 years), natural fermentation, and extended maturation in French oak barrels.
One of the key figures behind Kanonkop’s success was legendary winemaker Beyers Truter, often called the "Pinotage King." Under his leadership in the 1980s and 1990s, Kanonkop’s wines gained international acclaim, putting South African Pinotage on the map. Today, winemaker Abrie Beeslaar continues this legacy, refining the estate’s style while maintaining its core values of quality, depth, and authenticity.
A Must-Visit Destination for Wine Lovers
Kanonkop is not just a winery – it is a South African wine institution. Located in the picturesque Stellenbosch wine region, the estate offers visitors an unforgettable experience, including wine tastings, vineyard tours, and cellar visits. Guests can explore the history of Pinotage while enjoying some of the most iconic wines the country has to offer.
Kanonkop is more than just a winery; it is the heart and soul of South African Pinotage. With its rich history, commitment to excellence, and dedication to showcasing the full potential of this indigenous grape, Kanonkop has rightfully earned its title as The King of Pinotage.
Whether you are a seasoned wine collector or new to the world of South African wine, Kanonkop’s Pinotage is a must-try – a true expression of the power, elegance, and uniqueness that makes South African wine so special.
Have you ever tasted Kanonkop Pinotage? If not, now might be the perfect time to experience the wine that defines a nation! 🍷✨
