2022 Kanonkop Paul Sauer

The 2022 Paul Sauer is aged for 24 months in new French oak as usual, but, as usual, the wood is beautifully integrated and the fruit just shines: blueberry, black cherries and a touch of mint. Wonderful delineation and the higher percentage of Cabernet Franc really works here. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, very smooth and beautifully balanced. Not a powerful Paul Sauer, but loaded with fruit and demonstrating succulence on the controlled and sustained finish. Superb. 94 points

A little awkward when I tasted it (twice) in South Africa, as Paul Sauer often tends to be in its youth, this is a wine that will reward patience. Sourced from six older blocks on the estate, it partners Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Cabernet Franc and 18% Merlot with ageing in new oak. Leafy, vanilla top notes lead you into a palate of cranberry, cassis and tobacco leaf topped by aromatic spices. Has the acidity and underlying acidity to age. 95 points