Kanonkop Paul Sauer 50 (2009 vintage) in gift box

Fermented in open top concrete fermenters at 290C. The floating skins were punched down by hand, every 2 hours during fermentation. The juice was drawn off the skins after 5 days. After malolactic fermentation the wine was matured for 24 months in 100% new 225L French Nevers oak barrels.

Winter rainfall was higher than the previous two winters. Irregular temperatures from winter until the flowering period, together with cool growing conditions, led to great variations in the vineyards. The cool weather and regular rain showers led to less water stress for the vines during ripening. Harvest time was characterised by regular rain showers.

This wine will age extremely well and can be cellared for 20 to 25 years from vintage.

69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc

This wine pairs well with all types of steak, meat casseroles, roast leg of lamb and matured cheeses.

• Wine Spectator – 92 points
• Wine Advocate – 92 points
• Wine & Spirits – 90 points
• Jancis Robinson: 17/20 points
• IWSC – Gold
• IWSC – Pichon Longueville Trophy for Best Blended Red Wine
• Platter’s Guide – 4*

The name Kanonkop is derived from a hillock (kop) on the Simonsberg mountain above the wine estate from where, during the 17th and 18th centuries, a cannon (kanon) was fired to announce the arrival of sailing ships entering Table Bay. The roar of the cannon would be the signal to local farmers, who were waiting to make the 50-kilometer journey to the harbour, to load up their wagons with fresh fruit and vegetables to barter their produce. The first wines bearing the Kanonkop label were produced in 1973. To wine lovers familiar with the centuries old chà¢teaux and domaines of Bordeaux and Burgundy respectively, the winemaking history of our estate may seem surprisingly young. For 1973 was the year in which Kanonkop’s contention for a place in the annals of South African wine greatness began, just three years before the death of the man to whom the wine estate owes everything it has achieved and all the recognition it has attained: Paul Sauer.