By Following a winning streak of 2024 wine awards, Simonsig Family Vineyards has added another accolade to its credit: that of the esteemed Platter’s Cabernet Sauvignon of The Year Award for the Garland 2020, for achieving the highest score in this category.
Just announced, this award underpins how the Stellenbosch soil and climate create an undeniable perfect setting where world-class Cabernet Sauvignon takes shape under the expert guidance of top winemakers.
This cannot be truer in one of South Africa’s legacy wine farms, where third-generation cellar master Michael Malan is at the helm of crafting exceptional wines. “We are extremely proud of this recognition, which is a testament to the exceptional quality of Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon and reflects our unwavering commitment to crafting world-class wines that honour our unique terroir. It’s a result of meticulous focus in the vineyards and dedicated craftsmanship in the cellar,” Michael enthusiastically shared after the winning announcement.
This exceptional approach is evident in the alluring dark crimson Garland 2020. Interweaving values of tradition and family with unique terroir and excellence in wine growing, the wine is produced from personally selected Cabernet Sauvignon vines growing on ancient, weathered granite soils high up on the slopes of the Simonsberg.
Simonsig proudly stands among just 27 category-winning wines featured in this year’s prestigious Platter’s Wine Guide. Earning an outstanding 97 points, the wine’s exceptional quality is further highlighted by remarks from Platter’s taster Fiona McDonald: “The imposing flagship, from elevated Simonsberg single-vineyard. 2020 follows last 2018 (4.5 stars, 94 pts) in its fruit density, structure & composure. Layered & generous, cassis, fruitcake & spice among the scents & flavours, yet refined & silky. Feels effortless.”
In addition to Simonsig Family Vineyard’s top-scoring Cabernet Sauvignon, other wines in its portfolio also received high praise. Those that garnered more that 90-points (i.e. 4.5 stars) include Frans Malan Cape Blend 2021 (93 pts), Langbult Steen 2023 (90 pts), Redhill Pinotage 2021 (92 pts), Tiara 2020 (93 pts) and The Grapesmith Die Kluisenaar 2021 (94 pts).
Simonsig Family Vineyards has certainly tasted success on the award circuit this year, including Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Satin Royale crowned Top Nectar Cap Classique at the 2024 Amorim Cap Classique Challenge, the Labyrinth Cabernet Sauvignon honoured as Best Cabernet Sauvignon at the Inaugural Fine Wine Awards, the Redhill Pinotage 2014 receiving the Award of Excellence at the 2024 ABSA Pinotage Vintage Awards.
A limited number of bottles of The Garland 2020 remain, retailing at R1 700. They are available for purchase online and in the tasting room. Visit the Simonsig website for online orders and cellar-to-door delivery.