A toast to Simonsig’s Kaapse Vonkel
South Africa’s first M√©thode Cap Classique, the iconic Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel, celebrates its 40th birthday with a new refined pose that portrays the prestige and heritage of this legendary Stellenbosch sparkler since 1971.The look of the current 2009 vintages Kaapse Vonkel Brut and Kaapse Vonkel Brut Ros√© now lend a more luxurious and sophisticated edge deserving of Simonsig’s status as the country’s Cap Classique pioneer.
“My father, the late Frans Malan, left an indelible legacy by giving the country its first sparkling wine made according to the French tradition of secondary bottle fermentation 40 years ago. This year we pay tribute to this pioneering feat and it is only fitting that we give our Kaapse Vonkel range a mini face lift on its 40th birthday,” shares Simonsig cellarmaster Johan Malan.
Subtle refinements include the addition of a ‘South Africa’s first Cap Classique’ seal while the label, printed on specially imported, pearlescent paper, is more pronounced. The ‘Kaapse Vonkel’ designation which has become both a term of endearment as well as brand in its own right, has also been given more prominence.
In one of the many highlights of Kaapse Vonkel’s 40th anniversary year, Simonsig has just been crowned overall winner and Best Blanc de Blancs at the highly contested 2011 WINE Magazine Amorim Cork Cap Classique Challenge.
Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut 2009
A delicate and refreshing Cap Classique medley of Pinot noir (55%), Chardonnay (43%) and Pinot Meunier (2%) with delicious flavour intensity and great dimension. On the nose it shows lively floral aromas and citrus freshness while an energetic mousse forms a crown of the finest, racy bubbles in the glass. A classic biscuit character follows through to a nostalgic encounter of freshly baked bread on the palate whilst respecting the fruit flavours from the grapes that linger well to a refreshing finish. It was rated four stars in the September 2011 issue of WINE Magazine.
Recommended food partners: An ideal aperitif and delicious with fresh oysters, patés, light soups, sushi and to accompany dessert as it is perfect for cleaning the palate.
Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rosé 2009
Captivating with a bright, rosy pink hue, the Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rosé is a vivacious benchmark for Cap Classiques where Pinotage dominates the blend. The 2009 vintage is composed of 80% of this uniquely South African grape varietal, rounded off with a classic kiss of Pinot noir (17%) and Pinot Meunier (3%).The result is a full-flavoured, refreshingly dry sparkling rosé with a fragrant berry fruitiness, finesse and silky smoothness on the palate. Rose petal and strawberry aromas dominate the nose, revealing its red grape origins, while a fine, creamy mousse enlivens the floral bouquet in the mouth. A mouth-filling roundness on the palate shows ample fresh fruit intensity and body, which is perfectly balanced by a subtle acid structure that leads to a crisp, dry finish.
Recommended food partners: Smoked salmon, crayfish thermidor, Japanese sushi, fruit salads with red fruits and berries, lightly dressed seafood salads and Chinese and Thai dishes.
The new 2010 vintages will be in store as from December 2011
Tagged Cap Classique Challenge, Drinks, Drinks News, Wine News
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