Critics Ratings

Kanonkop Paul Sauer 1994

‘The 1994 Paul Sauer might lie in the shadow of the highly reputed 1995, but this bottle, opened at the end of a full day tasting South African new releases in London, was simply magnificent after 25 years. The bottle came directly from the cellar of South Africa maven Greg Sherwood MW, who bought it on release. I had encountered the 1994 once before, at a Kanonkop tasting several years ago, though it didn’t show as well as this. The 1994 displays only slight bricking on the rim, and the bouquet is better than you will find in most clarets of this vintage, offering a mélange of raspberry coulis, wild strawberry, cedar and thyme. It blossoms with aeration over the course of three hours, developing tertiary and terra-cotta scents. The palate nods to Bordeaux but is unashamedly South African, delivering the lushness of the Cape with the structure and depth. Of Bordeaux. Layers of mainly red berry fruit intermingle with sage, thyme, cedar and tobacco, building and fanning out toward the sweet, fleshy finish. The wine is so vivacious that it could easily mature for another 25 years. This bottle was testament to one of South Africa’s great wine estates and one of its most respected and consistent labels. Prices of old bottles are rising due to their rarity and growing appreciation. The good news is that recent vintages are just as good and represent outstanding value. Drink 2019 - 2045.’ – Neal Martin, Vinous, 95/100 (Oct 2019)

Kanonkop Paul Sauer 1995

‘Seductive Cabernet with beautifully spicy aromas, ripe fruit flavors and a velvety texture. It’s tannic and full-bodied, but so generous with the black cherry and vanilla notes that you hardly notice. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.’ – Wine Spectator, 90/100 (May 1999)

‘Seems only just to be lifting the hem of the fruit – still very savoury and concentrated. Full body, concentrated and aromatic, with medicinal and iodine character. Bitter notes to finish.’ – Richard Hemming MW, JancisRobinson.com, 17/20 (Sep 2018)

Kanonkop Paul Sauer 1996

‘Impressive for its age, with plenty of raspberry and blackberry fruit still showing, helping to offset the heavy dose of smoke and toast. Picks up a chocolate note on the muscular finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.’ – James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 89/100 (2001)

Provenance

From a private collection assembled at Kanonkop and meticulously stored in the Kanonkop cellars since the release of the first vintage