Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage 2024

Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage is a barrel-aged red from Kanonkop, a family estate in the Simonsberg-Stellenbosch ward of South Africa's Coastal Region, an area long known as a red wine heartland. It is made from Pinotage, a South African crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault that thrives in the warm Cape climate. The Simonsberg foothills bring decomposed granite soils and ocean influenced breezes that temper the heat, allowing the grapes to ripen fully while retaining acidity. Ageing in oak barrels exposes the wine to slow oxygen exchange through the wood, which softens the tannins and adds smoke, spice and a savoury depth that suits the grape's naturally bold fruit. At 14.5 percent this is a ripe, full bodied red with dark plum, blackberry and red berry fruit, a smoky, spicy edge and a hint of sweet tobacco, carried on supple tannins and a warm finish. It is approachable young but has the structure to hold a few years. Serve at 16 to 18C, with a short decant to open the fruit. It is a natural for the grill and for spiced, smoky dishes.