Simonsig toasts the
2014 harvest with Pinot noir for Kaapse Vonkel
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Tommie Corbett, Debbie Thompson, Hannes Meyer, Barbara Melck (2) - LR.JPG
With the vineyards teeming with workers and
winemakers, at Simonsig Estate the Pinot noir is once again the first grapes to
step up to the press this year.
Although untimely rains can still affect the
quality of grapes, Johan Malan, Cellarmaster at Simonsig, is especially pleased
with the high levels of acidity showcased by the Pinot noir and fruit intensity
in the white varietals at the start of the 2014 harvest.
“This year's harvest commenced seven days
later than the previous year. The slow ripening was mainly caused due to the
very wet winter and regular rains during spring,” says Johan.
“We have started with the Pinot noir for the
Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel and the natural acidity has been higher than normal
which is always a good sign for Méthode Cap Classique cuvées. The moist
conditions in November, December and January caused a bit of downy mildew in
some blocks which may affect the yield negatively, but certainly not the
quality,” continues Johan.
“At this stage the prospects are very good and
we are expecting a high quality vintage although the weather conditions can
still have a major impact on the outcome. This is especially applicable to the
late ripening reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz which are
harvested late in March. During this time untimely rain can still affect
quality. The cool conditions up till now will certainly benefit the early
varieties such as Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnay and Chenin blanc,” he adds.
With the soils retaining enough water and
requiring virtually no additional irrigation so far, the Simonsig vineyard team
is trying to slow down the vigorous growth of the vines by allowing the soils
to dry out. With the Cape Doctor sweeping in, their hard labour in the
vineyards will certainly be rewarded as it will assist the drying out
process.
“The warm conditions experienced at the moment
are normal and will speed up the ripening process and dry out any possible
fungus infections. We look forward a good harvest and taking the first sip of
our Kaapse Vonkel 2014, our famous Méthode Cap Classique,” Johan concludes.
Simonsig Wine Estate is located outside
Stellenbosch, on the Kromme Rhee road between the R44 and R304. For more
information visit www.simonsig.co.za, join the Simonsig community on Facebook or
follow them on Twitter @Simonsig_Estate.
