Some are of the opinion that this is the best Pinotage produced in South Africa. 97 points from Tim Atkin for a Pinotage is remarkable.

The vineyard for this icon Kanonkop wine was 68 years old when harvested for the 2021 vintage, its age allowing for the expression of immense Pinotage concentration as well as expressing this extraordinary vintage in the Cape winelands. Cellarmaster Abrie talks lovingly about the beauty of this very old vineyard. Despite age, the most perfect berries always arrive at the cellar. 2021’s ripening conditions allowed for slightly longer hang time, resulting in even better fruit concentration, without loosing acidity and high alcohols.

Deep purple in colour, with a concentrated explosion of red and black cherries, vanilla, dark chocolate, and sweet spice. The palate provides additional complex notes of red roses, cured meats and coffee grinds and a lifted finish. The perfect balance and refreshment and complexity – iron fist in a velvet glove!

Fermentation took place in open-top concrete fermenters. The floating skins were punched down by hand, every 2 hours during fermentation. The juice was drawn off the skins after 3-5 days. After malolactic fermentation, the wine was matured for 18 months in 100% new 225L French Nevers oak barrels.

ANALYSISL: Alc 14.05% | RS 1.7 g/l | TA 5.7 g/l | pH 3.73