Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2021

Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2021 is an iconic, deeply complex Cape Bordeaux-style red wine produced from vines averaging 31 years of age grown in decomposed granite soils on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain. Aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels, it displays a vibrant ruby color with expressive aromas of blackcurrant, red cherry, cedar, cigar box, graphite, and wild herbs. On the palate, it is full-bodied, structured, and elegant, offering seamless layers of cassis, cranberry, dark plum, cocoa, and sweet spice framed by fine-grained, silky tannins and a long, persistent savory finish.

Food Pairing: Pairs wonderfully with grilled ribeye steak, roasted leg of lamb, braised beef short ribs, wild game stews, and mature hard cheeses like Gouda or Comté.

95 Points - James Suckling

94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc and 15% Merlot, the Kanonkop 2021 Simonsberg Stellenbosch Paul Sauer Estate Wine sees 24 months in 100% new oak. This is considered a very good vintage that produced concentrated fruit that surely needs more time to evolve in bottle. The wine has all of its elements fixed into place, but it needs to flesh out and soften. The Merlot and Cabernet Franc are fermented separately. and the blend is made after malolactic fermentation. A combination of oak is used, including 40% Seguin Moreau, for added richness. This elegant red blend exhibits an especially polished quality that I found across this portfolio. The bouquet starts with cassis and candied cherry, and the strong oak signature brings Christmas candle and spice. The alcohol content is measured at a moderate 13%.

92 Points - Wine Spectator

Briary herb and loamy earth notes on the nose are a fragrant, savory-accented thread winding through flavors of crushed red currant, pomegranate puree, vanilla and red licorice. This is fresh with tangy, blood orange peel acidity, and chalky tannins firm the minerally finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2026 through 2031.