Simonsig Family Vineyards is an independent, family-owned farm synonymous with the history of the South African wine industry, the Stellenbosch wine region, and the Malan family name.
These elements are intertwined in this family-owned farm, where the late Frans Malan produced the first bottle of our much-loved Kaapse Vonkel, South Africaʼs first Cap Classique made in the classic bottle-fermented style. He is also honoured for co-founding the thriving Stellenbosch Wine Route, a first in its time. Today, his legacy lives on through his sons, Francois and Johan, and grandchildren Christelle and Michael, the 2nd and 3rd Malan generations at Simonsig Family Vineyards.
Frans Malan purchases the land from his in-laws and expands the farm and a modern, cold-fermentation cellar is built, making it the first of its kind for a private cellar in South Africa.
The first wine under the Simonsig label is released – a Chenin Blanc (Steen) – along with a Riesling and Clairette blanche. Two years later, Simonsig’s first red wine, a Pinotage, makes its debut.
Frans Malan pioneers the first bottle-fermented sparkling wine (now known as Cap Classique) in South Africa, and the legendary Kaapse Vonkel is born. In the same year, he co-founds the Stellenbosch Wine Route, another first of its kind in South Africa, and opens Simonsig’s doors to the public.
Frans Malan’s three sons, Johan, Francois and Pieter, join the family business. The wine portfolio continues to grow and is recognised for its prestige.
50 years of Kaapse Vonkel and Cap Classique are celebrated with the introduction of the iconic Satin Nectar packaging.
Third-generation Michael Malan, Johan’s son, takes the reins as cellar master. Simonsig’s first old vine wine, Langbult Steen, is released marking the farm’s 55th vintage.
A sparkling history of the Malan Family
At Simonsig, the Malan family values drive our commitment to producing wines of internationally regarded excellence, expressing the unique and diverse terroir of the Stellenbosch region. We also believe that being a gift of nature made for the enjoyment of people, our wine offering should always be complemented by true Cape hospitality.
Simonsig’s commitment to sustainability is driven by our desire to leave a positive legacy within the South African wine industry. By implementing sustainable practices across our environmental, social and economic spheres, we create a better future for our planet, community and business.
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