2009 Kanonkop
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Tasting notes
The 2009 Paul Sauer, which was made by current winemaker Abrie Beeslaar, comprises 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% each of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It is magnificent, one of the finest vintages that I have tasted. Still deep in colour, the bouquet bursts from the glass with copious scents of macerated black cherries, cassis, dates and Seville oranges. The palate is precocious yet balanced to a fault, a fine line of acidity keeping everything in check, exuberant from beginning to end. Caressing in texture, this Paul Sauer manages to be both hedonistic yet completely refined. It would give most self-aggrandising clarets from the same vintage a run for their money.
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Smoky, ripe blackcurrant fruit, chalky tannin, still very vibrant fruit with dark-chocolate and liquorice scent. Excellent concentration, and not revealing any of its years. Remarkable fruit ripeness. (RH)
Kanonkop's Bordeaux-style blend is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Aged for 24 months in new French oak. Correct and nicely balanced though it does taste as though it needs to be aerated a little more? Still pretty tough! (JR)
Slightly muddy ruby. Leafy, juicy and light. Slimline Cabernet – surely there’s plenty of Merlot in here? Very tasty, in fact, and serves well as a refreshing, easygoing style of Cabernet. Not hugely complex or intense, but very satisfying. Odd coffee character! (RH)