Kanonkop Pinotage 2022

Kanonkop Pinotage 2022 is a bold, refined, and exceptionally structured red wine produced from low-yielding, dry-farmed old bush vines aged between 45 and 70 years on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain. Fermented in traditional open-top concrete tanks and aged for 18 months in predominantly new French oak barrels, it shows a deep garnet color with purple hues. The nose opens with complex, fragrant aromatics of dark cherries, ripe plums, blueberries, and fig cake, complemented by accents of mint-chocolate, cedar, clove, coriander, and subtle tarry smoke. On the palate, it exhibits a full-bodied, luxurious profile packed with dense dark berry compote, savory spices, and vibrant blood orange acidity, framed by firm yet velvety tannins that lead into a long, persistent, and age-worthy finish.

Food Pairing: Pairs wonderfully with braised venison shanks, roasted leg of lamb, barbecue pork ribs, wild boar ragù, or aged smoked Gouda cheese.

94 Points - James Suckling 

This is a fragrant pinotage, showing mint-chocolate, cedar, cherry, spiced-plum and nutmeg aromas. Firm, spicy and full-bodied on the palate with firm yet ripe tannins and a long, spicy and focused finish. 

93 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 

The Kanonkop 2022 Simonsberg Stellenbosch Pinotage Estate Wine comes from low-yielding estate blocks aged between 45 and 70 years old. It is fermented traditionally before undergoing malolactic fermentation in new French oak. Matured for 18 months in predominantly new barrels (80%), the wine shows greater impact, richness and concentration. Kanonkop’s consistent use of open-top fermenters and hands-on cellar work has defined its authoritative Pinotage style for decades.

92 Points - Wine Enthusiast

The winery has been making Pinotage since 1973; half a century later its wine shows complexity. A perfumed nose displays notes of licorice, ground black pepper and pink peppercorn. Hints of mint lift the bouquet. The palate is vibrant, showing finely textured tannins and energetic acidity. There is a balanced and gentle mix of cranberries and other red berries. Clove, cinnamon and coriander add depth to this deliciously spicy Pinotage.

91 Points - Wine Spectator

Around,focused red,with a toasty edge to its fig cake, raspberry compote, vanilla and singed sage flavors. This is bright with blood orange peel–infused acidity, and light, fine tannins define the savory finish of fragrant spices and tarry smoke.