Cuvee Royal 2017, Simonsig

Simonsig Cuvee Royal 2017 is a prestige cuvée Blanc de Blancs Cap Classique Brut.  This Blanc de Blancs displays a light straw colour and exceptionally fine mousse. Refreshing aromas of lemon and lime flowers are complimented by layers of stone fruits, apples, and freshly baked bread. A delicate and precise palate accentuates these aromas and offers additional minerality and yeasty complexity. Beautiful acidity contributes extraordinary length to this prestige cuvee, making every occasion a special celebration.

Only the best Chardonnay grapes grown on the finest Stellenbosch soils are hand selected to make this extraordinary Blanc de Blancs. Gentle whole bunch pressing yields only the finest cuvée. Primary fermentation took place in a stainless steel tank to ensure freshness and primary fruit. No malolactic fermentation is done. The wine is bottled to complete the second fermentation in the bottle and aged on the lees for at least 3 years.

Frans Malan, the patriarch of the Malan family of Simonsig Wine Estate pioneered Méthode Champenoise in South Africa in 1971 when the first Kaapse Vonkel was made. For many years he was the only winemaker to do bottle fermented sparkling wine in the Cape. In 1990 Johan Malan travelled to Champagne on a study tour. He returned with a dream to make a Simonsig Prestige Cuvée from the finest and most delicate Chardonnay cuvées capable of long evolution to achieve the pinnacle of Cap Classique quality.

Grape varieties: 100% Chardonnay

Ageing potential: After maturing in the Simonsig cellars for more than 3 years the Cuvée Royale has now reached good complexity and can be enjoyed now. However, this Blanc de Blancs will only gain in depth, flavour and complexity for several years to come.

Food pairing: Serve at 6 – 8°C. Do not over chill.  Lively inspiring wines like the Cuvée Royale should be enjoyed with light delicate foods like fish, shellfish, crayfish, caviar or artichoke hearts. Fresh succulent oysters are compulsory. At the end of a meal Cuvée Royale will make an ideal partner for fresh desserts like fruit salad or sorbets. Or simply on its own just to celebrate a magic moment!

Alcohol: 12.3% ABV

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