By the mid-1980s, Kanonkop’s growing demand led to new vineyard plantings, but its winemaking ethos required maturity before these grapes were used. To bridge this gap, Jannie Krige introduced Kadette as a second label, symbolically linked to Kanonkop’s military-inspired name. Though Kadette's grapes now come from outside Kanonkop’s vineyards, they undergo the same meticulous winemaking process. The latest addition to the range is a well-rounded, flavorful Stellenbosch Cabernet offering great value.
The nose is filled with fresh juicy blackcurrant, black plums and black cherries. Underlying hints of bouquet garni and subtle oak spice add further complexity. The tannins are finely textured, which adds a sturdy framework to support the plush fruit core. Concentrated flavours of blackberries and black fruit, combined with a juicy savoury plush tomato note, creates a classic Stellenbosch Cabernet with a lengthy, dry finish.
90 Wine Enthusiast Blackberry leaf, cassis and plum skin all dance on the nose of this wine, with supporting accents of singed herbs, tobacco leaf and cedar. The medium-weight palate is like crushed velvet in texture, with ripe black-fruit flavors framed by plush yet structuring tannins and ample acidity that lends some lift along with the grip of the close. It’s well balanced and attractive now, though it should hold well through 2026.
90 Wine Spectator A dark, juicy, medium- to full-bodied red, with a streak of tarry smoke underscoring flavors of baked black cherry and black plum reduction, with notes of licorice and dried parsley and sage. Firm, chalky tannins emerge to trim the finish. Drink now through 2026.
