Description
What kind of wine it is
Simonsig Pick of the Bunch Pinotage is a still red wine that expresses the authentic character of Pinotage, the signature grape variety of South Africa. Visually, it displays a vibrant crimson red colour, while the nose offers an enveloping bouquet of dark berries, enriched by subtle notes of liquorice and sweet spices. On the palate, it reveals clear flavours of raspberry, black cherry and strawberry compote. The structure is characterised by soft, smooth tannins, supported by a freshness that leads to a long finish. It pairs perfectly with roast meats and game, showing its best after an hour of decanting.
Where it comes from
This wine originates in South Africa, in the prestigious Stellenbosch region. The grapes come from the Redhills vineyards of the Simonsig estate, located along the cool slopes of the Simonsberg mountain. The climate is moderated by ocean breezes, ensuring optimal and balanced ripening of the grapes. The distinctive element of the terroir lies in the particular red soils, formed from decomposed schist that has been altered over time by the elements. This geological matrix gives the wine a pronounced intensity of colour and aroma, a stylistic hallmark carefully preserved by the Malan family since 1688.
How it is produced
The winemaking process aims to enhance the purity of the fruit, making measured use of oak. Part of the blend matures for twelve months in second and third-fill French oak barrels. This technical choice imparts refined nuances of pepper and cinnamon, enriching the aromatic profile without ever overpowering it. The balance on the palate reveals a structured, precise and remarkably smooth sip. This meticulous work in the cellar gives the wine excellent ageing potential, allowing it to mature and refine beautifully over the years.
History and Curiosities
The historic Simonsig estate, located at the foot of Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch, has represented the excellence of the Cape lands since 1688. Thanks to the Atlantic breezes and the schist soils of the Redhills vineyards, the Malan family brings to life this Pinotage, a proud native grape variety of South Africa. The 2023 vintage honours tradition with partial ageing in French oak, aimed at enhancing its aromatic profile. This award-winning wine blends a profound historical heritage with the purest expression of the terroir.
Tasting notes
Perfume
Color
Taste
Serve at:
14 -16 °C
Longevity:
05 - 10 years
Decanting time:
1 hour
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 Francois-Jacques, Christelle and Michael, the 2nd and 3rd Malan generations at Simonsig Wine Estate. Read more
| Name | Simonsig Pick of the Bunch Pinotage 2023 |
|---|---|
| Type | Red green still |
| Denomination | N/A |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Size | 0,75 l |
| Alcohol content | 13.5% by volume |
| Grape varieties | 100% Pinotage |
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | South Africa |
| Vendor | Simonsig |
| Story | History and Curiosities The historic Simonsig estate, located at the foot of Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch, has represented the excellence of the Cape lands since 1688. Thanks to the Atlantic breezes and the schist soils of the Redhills vineyards, the Malan family brings to life this Pinotage, a proud native grape variety of South Africa. The 2023 vintage honours tradition with partial ageing in French oak, aimed at enhancing its aromatic profile. This award-winning wine blends a profound historical heritage with the purest expression of the terroir. |
| Origin | Redhills of the Simonsig estate, Stellenbosch, South Africa |
| Soil composition | Red soils from decomposed and weathered schist |
| Production technique | 9% of the blend matures for 12 months in second and third passage French oak |
| Wine making | 9% of the blend is aged for 12 months in second and third use French oak. |
| Aging | 9% of the blend spends 12 months in second and third use French oak. |
| Total acidity | 5.1 gr/L |
| PH | 3.59 |
| Residual sugar | 2.0 gr/L |
| Allergens | Contains sulphites |

