Description
What type of wine is it
Tiara by Simonsig is a still red wine from Stellenbosch that embodies the elegance of a classic Bordeaux-style blend. This artisanal and vegan label combines varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. On the nose, it reveals a deep aromatic profile, with notes of blackcurrant, blueberries and ripe cherries enriched by hints of violet and tobacco. On the palate, it is distinguished by the purity of the fruit, offering hints of plum, blackberry and dark chocolate on a delicate earthy undertone, accompanied by soft and silky tannins thanks to ageing in oak barrels, for a long, harmonious and slightly spicy finish.
Where it comes from
This red originates in Stellenbosch, in the heart of South Africa's renowned Coastal Region, a territory that gives the grapes an ideal balance between freshness and intensity. The vineyards are rooted in ancient shale soils, a geological matrix that provides depth and clear aromatic precision. The particular soil and climate conditions allow for a wine with remarkable concentration, where the nature of the soil translates into depth and persistence. The result is a glass capable of giving immediate pleasure, while maintaining significant ageing potential.
How it is produced
Following rigorous selection and destemming, the grapes undergo a short cold maceration. Vinification is customised for each variety: Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot undergo extended maceration on the skins, while the other grapes ferment in open-top fermenters with constant punch-downs and pump-overs. Once malolactic fermentation is complete, ageing continues for sixteen months in French oak barrels, primarily first-fill. The final blend is created at an advanced stage of maturation, through rackings that define its final balance and harmony.
History and interesting facts
A true flagship label of the estate, the Simonsig Tiara 2020 celebrates the tradition of a family that, since 1970, has dedicatedly represented South African wine excellence in Stellenbosch. This elegant Bordeaux blend is created from the selection of the best grapes from a vintage favoured by ideal winter rains and exceptional quality. Careful selection in the vineyard and ageing in barriques enhance a broad and deep fruity profile, embellished by silky tannins. The harmony of this glass is sealed by the prestigious 92 points from Tim Atkin MW.
Tasting notes
Perfume
Color
Taste
Serve at:
16 - 18 °C
Longevity:
10 - 15 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 Stellenbosch Tiara 2020 |
|---|---|
| Type | Red green still |
| Denomination | N/A |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Size | 0,75 l |
| Alcohol content | 14.0% by volume |
| Grape varieties | 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 6% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc |
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | South Africa |
| Vendor | Simonsig |
| Story | History and interesting facts A true flagship label of the estate, the Simonsig Tiara 2020 celebrates the tradition of a family that, since 1970, has dedicatedly represented South African wine excellence in Stellenbosch. This elegant Bordeaux blend is created from the selection of the best grapes from a vintage favoured by ideal winter rains and exceptional quality. Careful selection in the vineyard and ageing in barriques enhance a broad and deep fruity profile, embellished by silky tannins. The harmony of this glass is sealed by the prestigious 92 points from Tim Atkin MW. |
| Origin | Stellenbosch, Coastal Region, South Africa |
| Soil composition | Ancient and weathered schist soils |
| Fermentation | 14 8 days |
| Production technique | Pre-fermentation cold soak; fermentation (including open-top) with punching down and pump-overs; malolactic fermentation in barriques; ageing in barrique/French oak. |
| Wine making | After destemming, the grapes are transferred to tanks and undergo a cold soak prior to inoculation. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot spend 14–18 days on the skins before pressing. Cabernet Franc and Malbec undergo open-top fermentation, using a combination of punch-downs and pump-overs during their respective 14 and 18 days of fermentation. Fermentation takes place in French oak barriques. |
| Aging | Blending after 8 months of ageing, followed by a further 10 months in barriques before bottling; three rackings before bottling. Total maturation: 20 months. |
| Allergens | Contains sulphites |

