To attest to the longevity of the varietal I was poured a 1999 Pinotage that was matured in 80% new oak. It has a well-defined, fresh bouquet with blackberry, and a touch of mocha and undergrowth. The palate is well balanced with fine, slightly furry tannins. It is graced with a very sensual mouthfeel and good acidity with a harmonious, tarry, Medocian finish. Case proven! Drink now. Kanonkop is named after the hillock from which a cannon was fired in the 17th century. This Stellenbosch estate is one of the region’s grandees, specializing in red varieties including a highly respected Pinotage, crowned by their flagship “Paul Sauer” and “Black Label” labels. Winemaker Abrie Beeslaar has been at the helm since 2002.Importer: Cape Classics, New York, NY; tel. (212) 686-1300

Fine-grained, with a graphite note weaving through a supple core of mulled plum, boysenberry and raspberry ganache notes. Aged tobacco and saucisson sec hints frame the finish. This still has some guts, but this has softened nicely.--Non-blind Kanonkop vertical tasting (2010). Drink now. 6,425 cases made. -JM