Dear Kanonkop Wine Friend
As International Pinotage Day approaches on 12 October 2024, we are proud to reflect on our long history with this uniquely South African varietal. Our oldest block of Pinotage, planted in 1953, continues to yield grapes that embody the rich heritage and exceptional quality of our wines.
We are also thrilled to share that our Kanonkop Pinotage 2018 was recently awarded a place under the Top 10 ABSA Pinotage Awards. This accolade recognizes not only the hard work and dedication of our team but also the unique terroir of our estate, which consistently produces world-class Pinotage.
Vineyard Update
We caught up with Annelie Viljoen, our esteemed viticulturist, to get her insights. Here’s what she had to share:
“Pinotage started budding in mid-September, with a very even growth thanks to ample cold units during the late winter. Winter rainfall was more than sufficient, with a record July rainfall of 328 mm at Kanonkop.
“Producers are now starting to sucker the Pinotage (removing unwanted shoots). Initial growth is still slow due to the cold fronts, but once the weather clears and the sun comes out, the vines will take off! Fortunately, the soils are not as waterlogged as they were this time last year. Kanonkop sources approximately 1,000 tons of Pinotage for Kadette Pinotage and Cape Blend from Stellenbosch. Almost 40% of the grapes come from bush vines, which are low-yielding and over 20 years old – you can really emphasize the quality impact this has.
“Winter rainfall was more than adequate, already surpassing the long-term average for the year. Fingers crossed for a healthy Pinotage harvest in 2024!”
Join Us for International Pinotage Day
To celebrate these achievements and honor International Pinotage Day, we invite you to our Tasting Room on 12 October 2024 for a special walk-around tasting.
You will have the opportunity to taste a range of Pinotage vintages for only R100 per person from 09h00 -15h00, first come first served! This is a rare chance to experience the evolution of our Pinotage over the years and to raise a glass to South Africa’s signature varietal.
Can’t make it to our tasting room, visit our online shop!