Kanonkop 2018 Pinotage, Stellenbosch

South Africa's signature grape Pinotage is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. It's uniquely suited to the Cape microclimate and delivers plush fruit with earthy nuances. Kanonkop produces on of the best examples, sourced from 30 to 65 year old bush vines, fermented in concrete tanks then aged 16 months in 80% new French Never oak barrels.

Vinous scored this 93 points saying "The 2018 Pinotage comes from vines up to 65 years old, cropped at 5 tons/ha, and raised for 16 months in 80% new oak and 20% second fill. There is a little reduction on the nose, though this is brushed away with aeration to reveal black plum mixed with Christmas cake and a hint of licorice; fine delineation here. The palate is medium-bodied with impressive harmony and focus, the oak seamlessly integrated. There is fine backbone to this Pinotage, and a sustained white pepper finish that lingers. Outstanding. Drinking window: 2021 - 2033"

Wine Spectator scored this 92 points saying "A sleek, medium- to full-bodied Pinotage, rich with baked blackberry, plum pudding and roasted fig fruit, and accents of charred brioche and herbes de Provence. Tightly-meshed and chewy, this would benefit from short-term cellaring. A streak of minerally iron drives the lasting finish."


The Wine Advocate scored this 90 points saying "Displaying a dark ruby core with purple and red hints on the rim, the 2018 Pinotage Stellenbosch opens with a nose of sweet, confected plums, black raspberry, mocha and hints of sweet oak spice. Medium to full-bodied, the wine displays sweet fruit on the palate with a generous helping of 80% new French oak. It ends with sappy plums and black cherry skin flavors that give way to tight tannins that linger on the long finish. There are plenty of winemaking practices happening with the expression that creates an enjoyable experience for the drinker."