Sparkling wines are not only made in Champagne, but also in many other places around the world, such as South Africa. Here, the Malan family literally and figuratively invented sparkling wine: high-quality sparkling wines that win many awards. And... they make even more wines. TEXT CHARLOTTE VAN ZUMMEREN
The Cape was a safe haven for French Huguenots centuries ago. Back home, their lives were no longer secure, but in South Africa, Huguenots were welcomed with open arms. One such refugee was Jacques Malan, who arrived in 1688. A few centuries later, his descendant Frans Malan became a true pioneer in the South African wine business. He introduced, for instance, the mise en bouteille au chateau, bottling on the estate itself, as well as the Vonkel wine.
Today, Simonsig - as the new name for the estate is called, referring to the magnificent view the estate has of Mount Simons - is run by the two brothers François (vineyard) and Johan (cellar) Malan. They have 210 hectares of vineyards, planted with a full range of grape varieties. This generation knows how to surprise the wine world time and again with wines increasing in quality. Yet only part of the production is exported abroad; the domestic market provides half of Simonsig's turnover.
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