Proteas Wines Limited

A pioneer in Méthode Cap Classique, Simonsig still leads the pack when it comes to locally produced bubbly. This year its Kaapse Vonkel claims first - and second - position in the Amorim Cork Cap Classique Challenge.   

Johan Malan, cellarmaster at Simonsig, greets with a firm handshake and a steady gaze that suggests he is a man unfazed by interviews, speeches, praise or criticism. He has been in the industry for long enough, and has a familial dynasty that precedes his rule. He knows when to be perturbed. Malan has been here before, after all, back in 2002 when his Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut 1999 won the inaugural Cap Classique Challenge. A somewhat uncanny repeat feat considering that the Kaapse Vonkel Brut 1998 was judged third overall at the 2002 Challenge.

A Leader Since 1971

And how apt that South Africa's first MCC (bottle-fermented sparkling wine made in the Champagne style) should still be the exemplary leader it was when it first came under cork in 1971 - then still a project headed by Malan's father, Frans. As with all pioneering efforts, it was one that underwent intense tweaking in its early stages before settling into an equilibrium where vini- and viticultural practices have been perfected and remain nearly unchanged.

Establishing itself neatly as a brand that Malan summarises as being "trustworthy both in terms of price and quality".