A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc and 15% Merlot, the Kanonkop 2021 Simonsberg Stellenbosch Paul Sauer Estate Wine sees 24 months in 100% new oak. This is considered a very good vintage that produced concentrated fruit that surely needs more time to evolve in bottle. The wine has all of its elements fixed into place, but it needs to flesh out and soften. The Merlot and Cabernet Franc are fermented separately. and the blend is made after malolactic fermentation. A combination of oak is used, including 40% Seguin Moreau, for added richness. This elegant red blend exhibits an especially polished quality that I found across this portfolio. The bouquet starts with cassis and candied cherry, and the strong oak signature brings Christmas candle and spice. The alcohol content is measured at a moderate 13%. 94+ points

The 2021 Paul Sauer, which spent 24 months in 100% new oak, has a very well-defined bouquet of red berry fruit, cedar and a touch of wild mint. There is a sense of control here and you would never think it was aged entirely in new wood. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins—a relatively elegant Paul Sauer compared to recent vintages. Lightly spiced and harmonious on the finish, this is a sophisticated wine. 93 points