Simonsig has clinched the trophy for the best Cabernet Sauvignon at the first-ever Fine Wine Awards with its Labyrinth Cabernet Sauvignon 2020. This prestigious accolade highlights the exceptional craftsmanship of Cellarmaster Michael Malan and the red wine cellar team as well as the exceptional terroir Stellenbosch provides for this cultivar.
The Fine Wine Awards aim to establish the largest listing of blind-tasted wines in South Africa. This groundbreaking competition saw over 900 entries, with only 12 trophies awarded, making Simonsig’s achievement all the more significant.
The head of the judging panel, esteemed local wine writer Malu Lambert, commended the overall quality of the entries, stating, “The quality of the entries was incredibly high, making our job as judges tough. However, the passion and dedication of the panels saw that every wine was given its due diligence. I am delighted at the outcome. The winning wines are a true reflection of South Africa’s unflinching commitment to quality in the fine wine sector; these wines can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s best.”
The Labyrinth Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 was awarded an impressive 95 points. The official report described the wine as, “Refinement and power. Cabernet seasoned with a dash of cab franc. Open and fragrant, sketches of lead pencil, cassis, cedar and stone evolve onto a succulent, savoury palate with a broad backbone of mineral acidity. 18 months in French oak barrels (26% new), folds in spice, vanilla over the lush, black cherry core, tapering to the edges with round, ripe tannins to a poised dry finish.”
This wine is crafted with care from select vineyard sites, one of which forms an actual labyrinth, mirroring the journey of introspection. Rooted within the rich, weathered soils of deep red granite and shale, the terroir distinctly expresses itself through this classical Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon.
In addition to this accolade, other Simonsig wines also performed exceptionally well in the competition. The Tiara 2019 received 93 points, while Mr Borio’s Shiraz 2021 garnered 92 points.
A limited amount of the 2020 vintage of the Labyrinth Cabernet Sauvignon is still available from the tasting room and online at R225 a bottle.