SIMONSIG HONOURS OLD FAMILY FRIEND WITH MR BORIO’S SHIRAZ 2004

Simonsig Estate, renowned for its distinctive red wines, has babtised its full-bodied Shiraz, Mr. Borio’s, in honour of a remarkable friend of the Malan family.

The 2004 vintage, which flaunts a new classy, clean and striking appearance, pays homage to Alessandro Borio, an Italian Prisoner of War who stayed on after World War II to make South Africa his home. A master in ‘cemento’, his unparalleled masonry skills and eccentric, colourful personality have found an inherent place at this Stellenbosch wine estate which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

“Starting every day by cooking breakfast on his spade, Mr. Borio, built the first cement wine tanks on Simonsig. This, the oldest part of our cellar, is still used today to produce our widely enjoyed Shiraz,” explains winemaker Johan Malan.

Title bearer of South Africa’s Top Shiraz crowned at the inaugural WINE Magazine TOPS at Spar Shiraz Challenge in 2004, Simonsig attributes the progression of Shiraz excellence to an intense dedication to this cultivar over the past decade.

In 1993, old vineyards were replanted with new local, French and Argentinean Shiraz clones in ideal soil on specially selected sites, resulting in a dramatic improvement in the quality and varietal character of the grapes.

“Shiraz is the most planted grape variety on our farm due to our idyllic location on the Simonsberg foothills, situated a little further inland with colder night temperatures than the vineyards nearer the sea, which adds to the aromatic fruitiness and delicious intensity of the fruit,” added Johan.

Akin to the multi-faceted character and whimsical charisma of its namesake, the richly layered Mr. Borio’s Shiraz 2004 charms with an abundance of herbaceous aromas.

A mouth filling mélange of white pepper, violets and dried proteas is given further complexity by spicy vanilla and cinnamon oak flavours that persist right through the finish.

Alluring with a deep ruby colour, it is a well-structured dry red with a complex berry bouquet and slightly dry finish lingering on the aftertaste. Smooth elegant tannins provide just enough structure to promise excellent ageing potential.

Mr. Borio’s Shiraz 2004 is an excellent choice with pot roasts, venison, biltong or mature cheddar. Or try it with a hearty tomato stew, a personal favourite of Mr Borio who regularly joined the Malan family round their kitchen table for lunch.

Mr. Borio’s Shiraz 2004 retails from R60 per bottle at selected wine outlets and bottle stores countrywide.

For more information or wine orders contact Simonsig Estate at Tel: (+27) 21 888 4915 or visit www.simonsig.co.za.