Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage 2018
By Christian Eedes, 23 October 2020
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Stellenbosch property Kanonkop is synonymous with Pinotage and it’s interesting to see how the brand custodians leverage this. How much of a quality differential between the Estate Range 2018 (R430 a bottle) and the pinnacle Black Label 2018 (R1 900 a bottle) for instance? Tasting these wines next to each other, I think the Black Label does offer a little more concentration and complexity but ultimately, the premium that is asked for the Black Label comes down to mystique. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:
Kanonkop Pinotage 2018
From vineyards ranging in age from 31 to 65 years old. Matured for 16 months in French oak, 80% new. Aromatics of violets, plums, cocoa, spice and earth. The palate is juicy and sweet on entry, not without freshness and smooth textured before a finish that is gently savoury.
CE’s rating: 92/100.
Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage 2018
From a vineyard planted in 1953. Matured for 18 months in French oak, 100% new. Red and black fruit, rose plus attractive oak-derived notes like vanilla and cinnamon. The palate has a dense core of fruit – there’s a winning sweetness initially (although the wine is technically dry with residual sugar measuring 2.5g/l) to go with bright acidity and firm but fine tannins, while the finish is long and dry.
CE’s rating: 94/100.
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Kwispedoor | 28 October 2020
Price and mystique aside, I tasted this 2018 Black Label last night and the wine itself is just fabulous. I’d be inclined to score it a bit higher than you, Christian. Are you discriminating against Pinotage because Pinot Noir is its parent? 😉 Just pulling your leg!
Jeremy | 24 October 2020
If Kanonkop can sell the wine at a super premium price, then it is not overpriced.
The market dictates.
AB | 24 October 2020
Agreed.
Wine quality has no propotionality to price. We all know this, people must stop complaining.
GillesP | 24 October 2020
I am not complaining. I just choose something more to my liking.
Local | 23 October 2020
Just spit it out, the wine is overpriced!
GillesP | 23 October 2020
For this price, you can acquire a bottle (or a case if you are willing) of Domaine de Chevalier Pessac Leognan 2009. One of the most beautiful Bordeaux from that vintage and now open for business. I know where would be my choice without a second of hesitation.
Dion | 23 October 2020
Dear Christian
Could you expand on what you mean when you say ‘the premium that is asked for the Black Label comes down to mystique.’
Cheers
Dion
Christian Eedes | 23 October 2020
Hi Dion, I mean everything from using only the oldest vines on the property to holograms of authenticity…