[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s famed Stellenbosch Wine Route lies the vineyards of Simonsig, with a history as rich and effervescent as the Cap Classique it produces. Simonsig Wine Estate is not only a custodian of South Africa’s viticultural heritage but is recognised as the pioneer of Cap Classique. From the original Kaapse Vonkel to the Cuvée Royale, to the more recent Satin Nectars, this legacy of timeless elegance and craftsmanship continues with third-generation cellar master Michael Malan. Let’s delve into the essence of Simonsig, where every bottle is a testament to a legacy cherished, and every sip is a homage to the artistry of our Cap Classique.
Piet van Niekerk bought this property in 1943 and Simonsig founder Frans Malan married one of his daughters, Liza. This is how the farm came into the Malan family.
Frans Malan was the forward-thinking entrepreneur who laid the foundation of the Simonsig Wine Estate. The first wine labelled under the Simonsig name was released in 1968 – Simonsig Steen (Chenin Blanc). It was a trip to the Champagne region in France that ignited his inspiration for Simonsig’s pioneering move, becoming South Africa’s very first producer of traditional method bottle-fermented sparkling wine with the release of the beloved Kaapse Vonkel in 1971. This was the birth of the now internationally recognised Cap Classique category, and the Simonsig range has grown to include five different expressions of Cap Classique which have garnered local and international acclaim. Simonsig’s pivotal role in fostering a flourishing range of South African Cap Classiques continues to create an enduring sense of pride.
In the same year as the release of Kaapse Vonkel, Simonsig, together with Spier and Delheim, assumed the pivotal roles as the visionaries behind the establishment of the Stellenbosch Wine Route. Their inspiration struck during a trip to France when our founder, Frans Malan, and fellow members of the South African wine industry encountered the concept of the wine route. Recognising the immense potential of this idea in Stellenbosch, it illuminated their collective vision.
Today, the Stellenbosch Wine Route is a culmination of the best the region has to offer and a pivotal player in the local economy.
Since the inception of the Kaapse Vonkel, the Malan family of Simonsig have steadfastly upheld their dedication to the craft, nurturing Kaapse Vonkel into an esteemed international benchmark for quality. This remarkable range stands as the torchbearer, symbolising Simonsig’s mastery of proudly South African-made Cap Classique.
As a timeless Cap Classique that boasts a delicate golden hue, the Kaapse Vonkel Brut exudes finesse and sophistication with each bubble making every moment memorable. On the nose, crisp green apples are supported by subtle aromas of pear and shortbread biscuits. Refreshing fruit driven flavours are followed by a delicate mineral finish on the palate. This Cap Classique is a culmination of classic varietals blended seamlessly, where the legacy of Frans Malan’s pioneering spirit endures.
Showcasing a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinotage and Pinot Meunier, the Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rosé is the perfect harmony of elegance and ethereality. Captivating aromas of wild strawberries, field flowers and sourdough bread are followed by flavours of fresh strawberries and raspberry sherbet and lightly baked biscuits on the palate. A Cap Classique where every sparkling sip encapsulates the essence of celebration itself.
This wine is as vibrant as the pattern that adorns it. Satin Nectar is the same make-up as the classic Kaapse Vonkel, but with a dosage that makes all the difference. With a creamy mouthfeel, combined with floral and fruity notes, Satin Nectar is a welcome addition to any celebration.
In a radiant salmon hue, this wine comes alive with vibrant bubbles and a lingering, luscious mousse. On the nose strawberries and cranberries are accompanied by subtle floral notes, the Satin Nectar Rosé is a sweeter companion of the Brut Rosé and is exquisite on its own or with your favourite dessert.
With a light straw hue and an incredibly refined perlage, this prestige Cuvée is a tribute to Chardonnay, expressing the true character of the “queen of grapes”. It offers a symphony of green apple and biscuit notes, culminating in a luxurious creamy finish.
Simonsig’s Cap Classique is an embodiment of a legacy steeped in tradition and a testament to the unyielding pursuit of perfection spanning across three generations. As we raise a glass to our rich winemaking past this Heritage Day, we remain inspired by the pioneering spirit of Frans Malan. 2023 will see the release of a new jewel in our Cap Classique collection. Keep your eyes peeled on our social media for a new reason to celebrate coming soon![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]