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Go to the shop"The 2021 Paul Sauer represents a true Cape Bordeaux blend masterclass once again from Abrie Beeslaar! Drink from 2025 to 2050+"
Kanonkop, nestled in the Stellenbosch region, has long been revered for producing some of South Africa’s most prestigious Bordeaux-style blends. The 2021 vintage of Paul Sauer marks a milestone: it is the final full vintage under winemaker Abrie Beeslaar’s full-time leadership.
The growing season in 2021 was somewhat cooler and later in harvest than some recent vintages. Warmer periods late in winter caused uneven bud burst and flowering, but soil moisture remained satisfactory. These cooler conditions resulted in finer, more elegant expression in the wines.
The vineyard sources are mature vines (on average ~31 years) on decomposed granite, Hutton and Clovelly soils in Simonsberg/Stellenbosch. The rigorous vineyard work and direct estate oversight ensure fruit of character and persistence.
Blend / Maturation: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc. Matured for 24 months in 100% new 225L French oak barrels.
Colour & Nose: Deep ruby in the glass. Aromas of cherries and cassis, cedar, cigar box, tea leaves, tomato paste, plus subtle floral perfume, sweet cedar, vanilla spice and graphite.
Palate: Cranberries, savoury plum, cassis, black cherries, blackberry, with layered flavours of sweet vanilla and gentle oak. Elegant, fine-grained tannins; balanced acidity; a sense of restraint despite the intensity. Notably fresh and precise.
Finish & Structure: Long, persistent finish. Refined structure, persistent flavours, good aging potential. The oak is well-integrated.
Pairs beautifully with:
Grilled or roasted red meats: a great match with ribeye steak, lamb chops, or roast leg of lamb.
Rich meat casseroles and stews, especially with a tomato or wine-based sauce.
Mature, hard cheeses (e.g. Comté, aged Gouda, or mature cheddar).
Dishes with herbal or earthy notes: thyme, rosemary, bay leaf complements the savoury plum and cedar hints in the wine.
Varietal Composition: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, 17% Merlot.
Bottle Size: | 750 ml |
Alcohol: | 13,50% |
Acidity: | 6,5 g/l |
pH: | 3,5 |
RS: | 2,8 g/l |
Estate: Kanonkop Estate