None of this would have been possible without you – our Simonsig community, our extended family.
As we wrap up the year (and start wrapping gifts), we want to wish you a joyful festive season, happy holidays, and cherished moments with your loved ones. Here’s to 2025 – brimming with exciting plans we can’t wait to share!
1. The earliest start to harvest (again!)
On 5 January, we welcomed our first Chardonnay grapes for Kaapse Vonkel – our earliest harvest yet! Cellarmaster Michael Malan joked that he barely had time to shake the beach sand off his feet before diving back into the cellar.
2. The Maritimo docked
Our Grapesmith Collection of small-batch wines grew this year with the launch of Maritimo, a unique red blend featuring Mourvèdre, Grenache Noir, Marselan, and Syrah. The engraved compass rose on its bottle celebrates the intrepid “maritimos” who first rounded Africa in 1488.
3. A whole new "click, shop and earn" experience
In May, we unveiled a new website to make shopping for Simonsig wines easier than ever. Alongside it came our loyalty points system – a heartfelt thank you to our community for supporting us year after year.
4. A new chapter in leadership
In June, we welcomed Ilana de Vries as managing director, the first non-family member – and first woman – to hold the role. A new chapter for Simonsig begins, with Johan and Francois Malan continuing as directors.
5. Fresh looks for old favourites
This year, our Simonsig Chenin Blanc became Starting Blocks Chenin Blanc, complete with a refreshed label and a lighter bottle for sustainability. Our Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz followed suit, now Two’s Company. Meanwhile, our Labyrinth Cabernet Sauvignon debuted a label inspired by the actual labyrinth on our farm – waiting for you to explore on your next visit!
6. Top honours for our wines
It was a stellar year on the awards circuit for us and we were proud to walk away with a few top honours including:
- Labyrinth Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 awarded Top Cabernet Sauvignon at the Fine Wine Awards.
- Redhill Pinotage 2014 earning a Pinotage Vintage Award of Excellence.
- Kaapse Vonkel Satin Royale crowned as Top Nectar Cap Classique at the Amorim Challenge.
- The Garland 2020 named as Platter’s Guide’s Cabernet Sauvignon of the Year.
7. New deck, new memories
In November, we unveiled a beautiful deck outside our tasting room. Nestled under our old oak trees, it’s the perfect spot for summer wine tastings and platters. Book your table on Dineplan and join us soon!
8. Bubbles under the African sun
On 2 November, we hosted bubbly lovers our fourth annual Cap Classique Affair with 19 producers, live music, and incredible food with the theme “Under the African Sun”. Save the date for 1 November 2025, when the celebration returns to Simonsig.
9. A 30k-strong community!
This year, we reached a milestone as our Instagram family grew to 30,000 strong! Thank you for sharing your #SiMoments with us—we always love engaging with you on our social media and can’t wait to see more in 2025.
10. Celebrating long service
At our year-end celebration as we donned “Disco and Diamonds” outfits, we proudly recognised team members who’ve dedicated decades to Simonsig:
- 2 with over 40 years
- 2 with over 20 years
- 6 with over 10 years
Their hard work and loyalty inspire us daily.
