Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

Ripped.

Johann Krige, co-owner of Kanonkop in Stellenbosch, once remarked that if you were really serious about maturing your wine, then you should buy the property’s single-variety Cabernet Sauvignon rather than the blend that is Paul Sauer.

The 2013 vintage spent 24 months in French oak, 50% new. The nose shows black and blue fruit, and quite prominent oak-derived notes including vanilla and pencil shavings. The palate is extraordinarily rich and broad – super-concentrated fruit, fresh acidity, the tannins providing a chewy sensation. Dense, powerful and still remarkably youthful (alc: 14.44%). If being built like a brick outhouse is a requirement to ensure a wine’s ageing potential, then this should last forever. Wine Cellar price: R400 a bottle.

Editor’s rating: 90/100.

Find our South African wine ratings database here.