by Edo Heyns
Kanonkop is not one of those wineries that send out a press release every time winemaker Abrie Beeslaar sneezes, but when they do invite the media, it’s done with all canons blazing.
The most recent vintage of the already famed “Black Label” Pinotage – a 2010 stunner – was presented at the Estate last week, along with older vintages of Pinotage, as well as their iconic Paul Sauer blend.
I’m not sure what made the biggest impact – the ceremonial canon blast or the big reds, but the canon shot certainly makes for a more entertaining video, with even a Toyota Fortuner getting a fright!
Johann Krige, co-owner, explained that Kanonkop will not be releasing a 2009 Black Label Pinotage, because the ‘normal’ Pinotage is of such quality that the difference between the two wines was “miniscule”, adding that the Black Label portion was blended into the standard Kanonkop Pinotage.
The 2010 Black Label shows typical Pinotage sweet fruit and balance, even though the wood is still on the prominent side. Only 1 500 bottles are available exclusively from the following outlets at R1 100:
The Wade Bales Wine Society: Wade Bales, www.wadebales.com, 021 794 2151
The Wine Cellar: Roland Peens, www.winecellar.co.za, 021 448 4105
Norman Goodfellows: Richard Fonn, Richard@ngf.co.za, 011 788 4814
My wine of the evening was, however, the not-so-standard Kanonkop Pinotage 2009, which is one of those wines that are best enjoyed if you buy a few bottles and open one every five years. These wines have significant aging potential and the immaculate balance of this specific vintage makes me look forward to my 40th birthday …
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