SIMONSIG LAUNCHES TRIO OF SUMMER WHITES

Simonsig, the legendary Stellenbosch estate acclaimed for its repertoire of blockbuster, award-winning wines, strikes a stylish new pose with the release of a new-look trio of sensational whites from its Premium range.

Revamped with eye-catching simplicity, the latest vintages of Simonsig Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay now sport a visibly cleaner, more striking label as part of an all new sophisticated look.

The high flyer of this sublime threesome, the aptly named Sunbird Sauvignon Blanc 2007, brims with refreshing green tropical notes akin to the vibrant malachite sunbird that is drawn to the Cape’s indigenous fynbos hills where superb Sauvignon blanc is grown.

Raising the profile of crisp, easy-drinking dry whites, this vivacious Sauvignon blanc satisfies with a significant ‘greener’ taste appeal and has great flavours, textures and lower sugars than in previous years.

“Sauvignon blanc is essentially a variety where the quality originates in the terroir of the vineyard. The proximity of False Bay, creating cooler pockets in our elevated plantings, and our fertile soil compositions, add distinct character to our wine,” explains Simonsig owner and viticulturist, Francois Malan, of his prized domain.  

“Our vinification has evolved to create a crisp and delicate Sauvignon blanc which is evident in the taste of our 2007 vintage, made in a fresher style with more refinement,” he added.

Luminous with a bright, youthful tinge, Simonsig Sunbird Sauvignon Blanc 2007 is set to rule the roost this summer. Refreshingly dry, the wine bursts with aromatic tropical temptations whilst green pepper and nettle flavours emerge over time,

ending with a lively, zesty finish.

 In addition to the Sauvignon Blanc, a unanimous sense of approval prevails in the Simonsig cellar with the latest vintages of its quality consistent duo, Chenin Blanc 2007 and Chardonnay 2006, showing delicious intensity and complexity.

 “Chenin blanc was the first wine released by my late father, Frans Malan, in 1968 and without compromising consistency in wine excellence after 33 vintages, remains our biggest selling wine,” says Simonsig winemaker Johan Malan.  

The eminently enjoyable 2007 vintage flaunts a bright golden straw hue with sweet fruit aromas of sun-ripened Golden Delicious apples and tangy pear dominant on the nose. A tropical fruit salad of melons, guavas and pineapples fills the palate whilst a hint of wild honey evokes a silky richness on the aftertaste. 

“The quality of our first Chardonnay grapes from a new vineyard was superb with earlier picking lending a fresher fruit profile to our 2006 vintage,” explained Johan.

The full-bodied Simonsig Chardonnay 2006 is a fine expression of this noble variety, with classic intensity of flavour, French oak and finesse. Lavish tones of butterscotch and orange peel are enriched with lemon cheesecake decadence on the nose. Perfectly balanced with lively acidic verve on the palate, the wine concludes with a rich, dreamy aftertaste.

Serving suggestions:

Sunbird Sauvignon Blanc 2007:  Perfect partner for seafood, poultry and pasta dishes or to enjoy on its own next to the pool.

Simonsig Chenin Blanc 2007:  Stands up well to bold curries and spicy Thai cuisine.

Simonsig Chardonnay 2006:  Ideal with most seafood including fish curries, crayfish pasta and shellfish salad. Divine with ripe, creamy cheese such as Camembert, Pont L’ Eveque or Reblochon.     

For more information or direct cellar orders contact Simonsig Estate on Tel: (021) 888 4915 or visit www.simonsig.co.za.