Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage 2020

Region:  Simonsberg, Stellenbosch

Tasting Note:

‘From one special, old-vine pinotage vineyard. Gorgeously perfumed aromas, rather burgundian, on 2020 stress the grape’s pinot noir parentage. Intense & dense, absorbing the all-new oak, the long finish dry enough. Biggest tannins of this quartet, but juicy & not assertive, nestled in silky velvet. Pricey but unique & wonderful wine – unanswerable testimony to the variety’s potential.’ – Platter’s Guide, 5*(98/100)

‘Black Label is an expression of Pinotage on granite soils and always produces an intense, structured, age-worthy wine. This combines flavours of fennel, blueberry and blood orange, with fine, sinewy tannins, polished new French oak and a long, distinguished finish. 2024-32’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2022, 96/100

‘Grapes for Black Label come from a 1953 vineyard on decomposed granite, the 2020 undergoing maturation for 18 months in 225-litre French oak barrels, 100% new. The nose is currently very primary with floral perfume preceding cherries, plums, chocolate and spice while the palate is rich and smooth-textured – lots of luscious, sweet fruit, soft acidity and fine tannins, the finish gently savoury. Deeper and more layered than the standard label.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 94/100

‘Deep purple in colour, with a concentrated, rich profile of red and black cherries, dark plums, sweet spice and dark chocolate notes from the French oak. Notes of dry earth and cured meats adds to the wines complexity. The seamlessly integrated oak and velvety tannins gives structure to the sultry fruit core. The perfect balance of elegance and complexity- iron fist in a velvet glove!’ – Winemaker