The Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2023 is the latest release of one of South Africa’s most iconic Bordeaux-style blends, and a particularly classical expression of this legendary Stellenbosch wine. Cabernet Sauvignon forms the backbone, joined by a substantial portion of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, creating a wine with impressive depth, freshness, and precision. Kanonkop considers the vintage reminiscent of some of its great classical releases, while Master of Wine Greg Sherwood describes it as exceptionally elegant and polished.

The nose is initially restrained and sophisticated, gradually revealing layers of blackcurrant, black cherry, dark berries, and violets, with subtle fynbos, cedar, and savory nuances emerging as the wine opens. The palate is focused and beautifully structured, with concentrated dark fruit carried by silky, finely textured tannins and a vibrant line of acidity. There is remarkable intensity without excessive weight, giving the wine an elegant, almost effortless quality through its long, precise finish.

The 2023 vintage was not without its challenges. A warm, dry winter was followed by unusually humid conditions during the growing season, with welcome December rainfall arriving around veraison. Further rain arrived during harvest in March, making vineyard selection and picking decisions particularly important. Despite these conditions, the vintage produced fruit with excellent freshness and structure, resulting in a Paul Sauer defined by balance, vibrancy, and longevity.

This is a serious cellar wine, but one that can be enjoyed young with sufficient decanting. Pair with prime rib, beef tenderloin, roast lamb, venison, braised short ribs, or mature hard cheeses.

The Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2023 is the latest release of one of South Africa’s most iconic Bordeaux-style blends, and a particularly classical expression of this legendary Stellenbosch wine. Cabernet Sauvignon forms the backbone, joined by a substantial portion of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, creating a wine with impressive depth, freshness, and precision. Kanonkop considers the vintage reminiscent of some of its great classical releases, while Master of Wine Greg Sherwood describes it as exceptionally elegant and polished.

The nose is initially restrained and sophisticated, gradually revealing layers of blackcurrant, black cherry, dark berries, and violets, with subtle fynbos, cedar, and savory nuances emerging as the wine opens. The palate is focused and beautifully structured, with concentrated dark fruit carried by silky, finely textured tannins and a vibrant line of acidity. There is remarkable intensity without excessive weight, giving the wine an elegant, almost effortless quality through its long, precise finish.

The 2023 vintage was not without its challenges. A warm, dry winter was followed by unusually humid conditions during the growing season, with welcome December rainfall arriving around veraison. Further rain arrived during harvest in March, making vineyard selection and picking decisions particularly important. Despite these conditions, the vintage produced fruit with excellent freshness and structure, resulting in a Paul Sauer defined by balance, vibrancy, and longevity.

This is a serious cellar wine, but one that can be enjoyed young with sufficient decanting. Pair with prime rib, beef tenderloin, roast lamb, venison, braised short ribs, or mature hard cheeses.