Simonsig Tiara

Simonsig Tiara: Discover the Elegance of South African Bordeaux Blends

Introduction

South Africa's Stellenbosch region is renowned for producing exceptional Bordeaux-style blends, and the Simonsig Tiara stands as a shining example. This flagship red wine from one of Stellenbosch's pioneering wineries exemplifies the region's ability to craft complex, elegant wines that rival their French counterparts. Let's delve into its tasting notes and explore the perfect food pairings to elevate your enjoyment of this exquisite wine.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Simonsig Tiara displays a deep garnet core with youthful hues on the rim, hinting at its intensity and potential for ageing.
• Nose: A rich, perfumed bouquet of brambleberries and red currants unfolds, interlaced with layers of mocha, sweet cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla spice. As the wine opens up, delicate notes of violet, cedar, and savoury herbs emerge.
• Palate: The palate delivers a concentrated core of dark fruit flavours, balanced by elegant acidity and fine-grained tannins. Expect notes of black cherry, cassis, and a hint of liquorice, alongside subtle hints of tobacco and dark chocolate. The finish is long and complex, with a touch of minerality and a lingering echo of spice.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Simonsig Tiara's bold structure and complexity make it an ideal companion for rich and flavorful dishes:

• Roasted Meats: This wine sings alongside a perfectly cooked roast leg of lamb, a juicy prime rib, or a venison roast with a wild berry sauce.
• Aged Cheeses: Pair it with a crumbly Stilton, a mature cheddar, or a nutty Comté for a delightful interplay of flavours.
• Hearty Winter Stews: The wine's tannins and acidity beautifully cut through the richness of classic dishes like beef bourguignon or oxtail stew.
• Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb: The wine's savoury notes and underlying spice complement the herbaceous flavours perfectly.

About Simonsig Tiara

This iconic blend is crafted from a selection of Bordeaux varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. Each vintage showcases the exceptional quality of Simonsig's Stellenbosch vineyards.  The first Tiara vintage was released in 1992 and has garnered critical acclaim for its elegance, balance, and ageability.