Description
The Kanonkop Kadette Cape Blend 2023 is a lively, layered expression of Stellenbosch and a wonderfully approachable introduction to one of South Africa's most respected estates. Led by Pinotage and supported by classic Bordeaux varieties, the blend brings together generous fruit, savory complexity, and the polished structure that has become a hallmark of Kanonkop.
Ripe cherries, cassis, and juicy black plums lead the way, with aromas of cinnamon, allspice, baking spice, and dark chocolate adding complexity. The palate is packed with vibrant summer berry fruit, framed by fine, silky tannins and a subtle savory character that carries through the long finish. Generous without being heavy, this is a beautifully balanced Cape Blend that delivers plenty of character while remaining immediately enjoyable.
A versatile food wine, it pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, roast beef, venison, Cape Malay curries, barbecue, and hearty pasta dishes.
Ripe cherries, cassis, and juicy black plums lead the way, with aromas of cinnamon, allspice, baking spice, and dark chocolate adding complexity. The palate is packed with vibrant summer berry fruit, framed by fine, silky tannins and a subtle savory character that carries through the long finish. Generous without being heavy, this is a beautifully balanced Cape Blend that delivers plenty of character while remaining immediately enjoyable.
A versatile food wine, it pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, roast beef, venison, Cape Malay curries, barbecue, and hearty pasta dishes.
The 2023 vintage was notably later than usual, following a cold, wet winter and relatively cool conditions early in the growing season. Slow, steady ripening helped the grapes develop excellent flavor concentration while retaining freshness and balance.
Fermentation took place in Kanonkop's traditional open-top concrete fermenters at approximately 28°C, with the cap mechanically punched down every two hours to gently extract color, flavor, and tannin. The wine remained on the skins for 3–5 days before completing malolactic fermentation.
It was then matured for 12 months in second- and third-fill 225-liter French Nevers oak barrels, adding structure and subtle complexity without overwhelming the vibrant fruit.
Winemaker: Abrie Beeslaar
Fermentation took place in Kanonkop's traditional open-top concrete fermenters at approximately 28°C, with the cap mechanically punched down every two hours to gently extract color, flavor, and tannin. The wine remained on the skins for 3–5 days before completing malolactic fermentation.
It was then matured for 12 months in second- and third-fill 225-liter French Nevers oak barrels, adding structure and subtle complexity without overwhelming the vibrant fruit.
Winemaker: Abrie Beeslaar
Kanonkop is one of South Africa's most celebrated wine estates, situated on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch. Family-owned for generations, the estate has built an international reputation for age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux-style blends, and particularly Pinotage, a variety with which the Kanonkop name has become closely intertwined.
Traditional winemaking remains central to the estate's identity, from its iconic open concrete fermenters to meticulous vineyard management and thoughtful barrel maturation. The Kadette range offers a more accessible expression of that heritage while retaining the structure, character, and unmistakable Stellenbosch identity for which Kanonkop is known.
Traditional winemaking remains central to the estate's identity, from its iconic open concrete fermenters to meticulous vineyard management and thoughtful barrel maturation. The Kadette range offers a more accessible expression of that heritage while retaining the structure, character, and unmistakable Stellenbosch identity for which Kanonkop is known.
