Simonsig tasting room review
Simonsig - the vonkel is flat
With the late Frans Malan of Simonsig having been one of the local industry's original big names (it was he who pioneered the first sparkling wine in South Africa in the shape of Kaapse Vonkel), this farm's reputation is about as big as the mountain it's named after - and it is therefore awkward to have to point out that there might be room for improvement at the cellar door...
They are keen on receiving visitors, though, with billboards next to the R44 directing you to the farm. This is emphasised at the parking area where indications are that busses and accompanying tourists are readily accommodated.
And why not linger a bit? Outside, lush gardens surround the Cape Dutch building with benches neatly positioned along the path leading to the tasting room where modern influences from fine dining restaurant Cuveé have spilled over to create a patchwork of old-meets-new. Initial greetings are friendly, but after having explained the procedure - R25 to taste five wines of the 30 on offer - I am left to my own devices. I take a seat at one of the tables but then realise that serving is only done at the counter (where there are no seats). Here I stand around whilst waiting for Lara first to tend to some tourists. This is acceptable, but when she finally turns her attention to me I suspect that I am only treated as an afterthought. This inkling is confirmed when she stops mid-sentence to help a couple of newly-arrived Germans. I look to her co-attendant, but he is too busy updating his status on Facebook to bother with me.
I taste the special-release bubbly Cuvée Royale, and on Lara's advice, the Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rosé. The Simonsig Chenin Blanc 2008 has been named Superquaffer of the Year by Platter's, which I taste, as well as the Sauvignon Blanc. Then, to my distress, I realise I've forgotten the "five wines only" rule - I haven't even gotten to the reds! I share my concern with Lara, who very nonchalantly lifts a shoulder; she can manage to organise one extra choice for me, but that is it.
Despite her lack of charm or politeness, I find that Lara is well-informed on the wines - what detracts from the experience, though, is the fact that this product knowledge is more readily shared with those who wear the brand of shirts sold from one corner of the tasting room. I leave with only my Simonsig branded tasting glass.
Tel 021 889 5001; www.simonsig.co.za.
OPEN: Mon - Fri 08:30 - 17:00,
Sat & public holidays 08:30 - 16:00
SERVICE: 5/10 - the attendant is
too readily distracted
AMBIENCE: 6/10 - zilch appeal at
the counter.
VALUE: 6/10 - some well-priced
wines - pity there is a limit to how
many you can taste
QUALITY: 5/10 - I only tasted five.
