Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut 2023
R220,00
Frans Malan, the founder of Simonsig, was the first producer of MeÌthode Cap Classique in South Africa when he pioneered Kaapse Vonkel in 1971. A classic Cap Classique with a light golden hue. Kaapse Vonkel transmits elegance and refinement in every luxurious bubble. On the nose, white flowers, apples, and nectarines are supported by subtle aromas of shortbread biscuits. Refreshing flavours of apple and peach are followed by a delicate mineral finish on the palate. Beautiful acidity contributes extraordinary length and finesse to this Cap Classique, making every occasion a memorable celebration.
More Information
Specifications
In the cellar
All grapes are carefully handpicked and placed into bins. These whole bunches are then gently pressed in pneumatic presses, extracting the purest juices known as the cuvée. Following an overnight settling period, the juice undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of approximately 15-17°C, using specially selected yeast strains. To enhance the wine's complexity, a portion of the Chardonnay is fermented in older French Oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation is intentionally avoided to preserve the wine's freshness. Expert blending precedes the bottling process. Subsequently, after undergoing fermentation in the bottle, the wine ages on the lees for a minimum of 20 months before disgorgement.
In the vineyard
Higher rainfall during the 2019 winter months and the coinciding increase in dam levels resulted in better water availability for vineyards. Even budbreak and a large number of flowering bunches showed early promise. Conditions remained favourable, except for some wind during flowering and rain during December that required meticulous vineyard management. Moderate temperatures and dry weather followed, resulting in an excellent season for Cap Classique. Above average yields with healthy and excellent quality grapes. An intense season that required immense focus and precise execution to manage. However, if managed well it held great potential.
Ageing
Kaapse Vonkel is ready to drink upon release. The 2022 has all the attributes to gain in richness and complexity for at least 4 to 6 years.
Cultivar
48% Chardonnay | 49% Pinot Noir | 2.4% Pinot Meunier | 0.6% Pinot Blanc
Food Pairing
The versatile Kaapse Vonkel can be served with scrambled eggs in the morning, bobotie for lunch, fresh mussels for dinner or cake for dessert. Not to mention the obvious match with fresh oysters, pà¢tés, or if all else fails, on its own with the people you love.
About the Wine Estate
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.
