Simonsig, The Garland 2015

The name of the Estate was derived from the beautiful view we have of the spectacular Simonsberg, a mountain that dominates the landscape on the northern side of Stellenbosch. The slopes of Simonsberg is famous for its superb terroir and ideal soils to grow world class Cabernet Sauvignon on the deep red hued weathered granite soils. The vineyard is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean from the Table Bay and False Bay sides of the coast. The cool maritime site is at 400 meters altitude. Our family has a connection with these vineyards going back many generations and The Garland is a wine that expresses this close relationship with the mountain, the vineyard and our family.

TASTING NOTE

The wine displays an inky black centre with a great density of colour. A bright and youthful rim shows no signs of aging. Alluring black berry fruit synergise with perfumed potpourri notes, graphite pencil shavings and spicy cedar wood. The fresh brambly fruit on the palate entry expands into multi layered flavours of black cherry on the mid-palate. Tannins carved to perfection. This beautiful rounded Cabernet already displays complex characters of violets which is so true to the Simonsberg terroir. Great expression of Simonsberg Cabernet Sauvignon from the superb 2015 vintage and with further cellaring it will last for 15 to 20 years. 

VINIFICATION

The 2015 harvest was definitely one for the books. We had the earliest start in decades. Warmer weather in August resulted in earlier bud break, after which a warm, dry, windy summer accelerated ripening by approximately two weeks. The dry weather also led to a very healthy vintage. The Garland 2015 grapes were picked on the 11th of March. Healthy vineyard with pristine grapes delivered beautiful layers of fruit and we are very excited about the results of the 2015 vintage.