Kanonkop is one of the most prestigious wineries in South Africa, located in the famous Stellenbosch wine region. The winery has a rich history and is known for its high-quality wines, especially from the Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon grape varieties.

Kanonkop is a family business that has been passed down for four generations and is now in the hands of the brothers Paul and Johann Krige. The name Kanonkop derives from a hill (kop) on the Simonsberg above the wine estate, from where a cannon (cannon) was fired in the 17th and 18th centuries to announce the arrival of sailing ships in Table Bay. The roar of the cannon was the signal for local farmers, who were waiting to make the 50-kilometre journey to the port, to load their wagons with fresh fruit and vegetables to trade their produce.

The first wines with the Kanonkop label were produced in 1973. For wine lovers familiar with the centuries-old châteaux and domaines of Bordeaux and Burgundy, respectively, our estate's winemaking history can seem surprisingly young. For 1973 was the year in which Kanonkop's struggle for a place in the annals of South African wine history began, just three years before the death of the man to whom the wine estate owes everything it has achieved and all the recognition it has gained: Paul Sauer.

Here are some key points about Kanonkop:

History

• Founding: Kanonkop was founded in the early 20th century. The estate is named after the cannons (Kanon) that stood on the hills (koppen) and were used to warn the settlers of approaching ships in Table Bay.
• Family Ownership: The estate has been in the hands of the Sauer family for four generations. The current owners, Johann and Paul Krige, continue the tradition of quality viticulture.

Vineyards and Terroir

• Location: Kanonkop is located on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg in Stellenbosch, an area known for its excellent wine-growing conditions.
• Soil: The vineyards benefit from granite-rich soils that provide good drainage and add to the complexity of the wines.
• Climate: The climate in Stellenbosch is Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters, which is ideal for growing high-quality grapes.

Grape Varieties and Winemaking

• Pinotage: Kanonkop is best known for its Pinotage wines. Pinotage is a unique South African grape variety, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. Kanonkop's Pinotage wines are often rich and complex, with dark fruit aromas and a firm structure.
• Cabernet Sauvignon: In addition to Pinotage, Kanonkop also produces excellent Cabernet Sauvignon wines, which are known for their depth, aging potential, and robust character.
• Production method: Kanonkop uses traditional viticulture methods combined with modern technology. The grapes are hand-picked and carefully selected, and the wines are often aged in French oak barrels.

Famous wines

• Kanonkop Paul Sauer: Named after one of its founders, this wine is one of the estate's flagship wines and a Bordeaux blend that is internationally recognized for its quality and aging potential.
• Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage: A premium Pinotage wine produced only in exceptional years and is known for its elegance and complexity.

Recognition and Awards

Kanonkop has received numerous awards and accolades, both nationally and internationally. Their wines are regularly highly rated by wine critics and are favorites among wine lovers worldwide.