Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage 2024 is a Stellenbosch red built for immediacy and character, showing the variety in a more approachable, fruit-forward style without losing its regional identity. It carries the hallmarks of Pinotage clearly, but in a polished, easy-drinking frame that makes it especially appealing for those who want both freshness and substance in the glass. This is a wine with plenty of personality, but it remains well controlled throughout.
The nose opens with cherry, red and black plum, maraschino cherry, cinnamon, and nutmeg, giving the wine an aromatic profile that feels generous and lively from the outset. On the palate, blackberry, mulberry, and a touch of orange zest bring brightness to the fruit core, while notes of licorice, cedar, and warm baking spice add depth and shape. The wine is medium-bodied, with juicy freshness and fine-grained tannins that carry it into a long, satisfying finish. It would pair especially well with grilled meats, burgers, barbecue, roast chicken, or tomato-based dishes where its fruit and spice can settle naturally into the meal.
Already highly drinkable, this is a Pinotage made for early enjoyment, though it has enough structure to hold nicely over the near term.
The grapes were crushed and immediately pressed to limit color extraction and preserve the wine’s delicate pale pink hue. The juice was then cold fermented at 13°C until dry, a method that helps retain freshness and bright fruit character. After fermentation, the wine was kept on the lees for 3 months prior to bottling, adding a subtle creamy texture to the final wine.
Winemaker: Abrie Beeslaar
Often called the “First Growth of South Africa,” Kanonkop stands as a pillar of excellence in Stellenbosch. Famous for its iconic Pinotage and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon, the estate has defined the Cape’s red-wine identity for decades. Expect concentrated fruit, polished tannins, and complexity that unfolds beautifully with time. Every vintage tells a story of dedication, family, and precision. Kanonkop’s wines are bold yet refined—crafted to express both heritage and innovation. Explore Kanonkop Wines and experience South African winemaking at its finest.