Simonsig Frans Malan Cape Blend 2017

All grapes were hand-picked and sorted in the vineyard. All the different batches had a two-day cold maceration before fermentation commenced. The Pinotage spent a total of six days on the skins before pressing, with regular punch downs occurring after inoculation. The Cabernet Sauvignon spent a total of 20 days on the skins. Pump-overs were done 3 -4 times a day during peak fermentation. The Merlot fermentation lasted 9 days with pump-overs being done three times a day. Malolactic fermentation occurred in a combination of tank and barrel.

The 2017 vintage was a challenging one that led to a smaller, but very promising harvest for the Stellenbosch region. The Cape’s drought conditions, and dry warm weather produced grapes with small berries with great fruit intensity and big concentration. The cooler nights and warmer days during the ripening period resulted in grapes with excellent colour and fruit formation.

Will reach peak maturity 5 to 8 years from vintage. Due to the elegance and fruit intensity it is also delicious to drink now.

Pinotage 66% Cabernet Sauvignon 28% Merlot 6%

Egyptian dukkha crusted beef fillet medallions, slow roasted belly of pork, springbok espada, roasted duck and plainly cooked ostrich steak will compliment this wine.

Simonsig Wine Estate is 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 Méthode 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 Wine Estate.