What was the defining moment in your life that set you on the path of becoming a viticulturist?
When I was still in primary school, my grandfather bought a farm between Robertson and McGregor with vineyards and I immediately fell in
Frans Malan the late, founder of Simonsig Wine Estate, with his wife Liza established the estate in the Stellenbosch Wine Appellation and then proceeded on the most incredible pioneering journey in wine. Their sons, Johan [Production Director] and Fran
As the grandson of the Simonsig legend Frans Malan, Michael Frans Malan is one of the few third generation winemakers in Stellenbosch. Michael joined the Simonsig team in 2017 after gaining experience in Italy, Australia and South Africa and was appoin
The worst drought in the Western Cape in living memory was in full swing in 2017. While there were no significant heat waves during the summer, the nights were cool, and the vineyards were blessed with light rain in December 2016. The grapes harvested
Some will raise an eyebrow at the title of this article, for surely the Loire Valley and appellations like Vouvray and Savennières are the spiritual home of wines made from Chenin Blanc? That of course is true, but South Africa’s history and expe
The Pierre Jourdan Belle Rose, the Estate’s Rosé Cap Classique, has a sister in the Haute Cabrière Pinot Noir Rosé 2019. Eagerly awaited and just such a lovely year-round wine. The Estate known as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cap Cl
Earlier this week I attended a luncheon at Saint in Sandown during which the latest release from the De Wetshof Wine Estate of their De Wethof Limestone Hill 2019. The wine is one of South Africa’s most popular unwooded Chardonnays, an
In line with the latest lifestyle trends, Leopard’s Leap Wines is excited to introduce a charming new addition to the Leopard’s Leap portfolio: Leopard’s Leap Natura De-alcoholised Classic White and Classic Red
This exciting couple gives wine l
In her 20th year at Simonsig Estate in Stellenbosch, Debbie Thompson has been promoted to cellar master at this revered and pioneering third-generation winery. Thompson takes over the role of cellar master from Johan Malan under whom she has worked