The history of Zonnebloem dates as far back as the early part of the 18th century, when wines were already being produced on the Zonnebloem farm at Simondium. Early this century the vineyards were replanted with the best rootstocks available and a prize-winning tradition for Zonnebloem wines was begun.
By the mid-1940s, Zonnebloem had become renowned among local winelovers as a result of its many awards earned at Cape wine shows. Zonnebloem also achieved a following in England, where it was imported by Burgoynes of London. It was at this point that it was incorporated into the SFW range.
Production was under the expert guidance of Bill Winshaw, son of Dr Charles William Winshaw, who founded the company. That he was able to maintain the brands sound reputation is borne out by the high rating given a 1945 Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon when it was tasted in 1977 by the Institute of Masters of Wine, whose members pronounced it a magnificent, superb wine - a great experience. A Zonnebloem Cabernet and Riesling were also chosen for the Royal trains official wine list on the occasion of the visit of the British Royal family to this country in 1947.
The Zonnebloem label features a crest depicting a raised right hand clasping a sword and resting on a crown bearing nine pearls. Below it appears the motto la main a loeuvre (the hand that works). It is a symbol of the winemaking philosophy brought to Zonnebloem wines: that hard work through the careful establishment of vineyards, the selection of the finest rootstock, the choice of the finest quality grapes and the application of the finest viticultural and vinicultural methods, results in wines that rank as jewels among connoisseurs.
Since Zonnebloems incorporation into the SFW product range, its wines have continued to win accolades both locally and overseas. Among its many prizes are the gold medals awarded at the Club Oenologiques International Wine and Spirit Competition held annually in London and the Brussels-based Monde Sélection.
In South Africa Zonnebloem wines are regularly chosen for the select South African Airways wine lists and have for four of the past five years been featured on the airlines premium Wine of the Month list for first-class international travellers. In addition, vintage Zonnebloem wines consistently fetch high prices at the annual auction of rare Cape wines at Nederburg. The most spectacular price achieved to date was a case of 1965 Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon, sold for R8 250,00.
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Plaisir de Merle
Chardonnay Paarl 2003
Flashy style, with lots of fig, butter, pineapple and brioche
aromas and flavors. Lush palate, with a soft, creamy finish. Could use
a little more zip, but will certainly have fans. Drink now. 700 cases
made. (JM)
Plaisir de Merle
Shiraz Paarl 2003
Ripe blackberry and cassis fruit with racy acidity and a
minerally, smoky finish. Solid. Drink now through 2006. 1,000 cases made.
(JM)
Nederburg 2003 Western
Cape Pinotage
87 Points
Saturated with plum and blueberry fruit, this smooth,
smoky pinotage is soft and relatively light. Pair it with the dark meat
of game birds or turkey.
2005 Nederburg
Sauvignon Blanc, Western Cape
A Best Buy
This wine has a vegetal character, but tropical fruit
flavors are just as dominant. Intense flavors and aromas, lively acidity
and a warm finish make this an ideal match for oily foods. Imported by
Dreyfus, Ashby & Co.
2003 Nederburg
Pinotage
Western Cape
A Best Buy
This ruby-red wine has a lot to offer. It offers vanilla,
spice, Maraschino cherry and cola in the nose, while the palate is packed
with more cherry, vanilla, a mild minerality and some lemon notes. It
finishes smooth, with coffee and spice. Imported by Dreyfus, Ashby &
Co.
2002 Nederburg
Shiraz
Western Cape
A Best Buy
On the nose, plum and juicy berry are joined by cocoa
powder and vanilla. With ir, grilled meat aromas emerge. The palate starts
out a bit sweet with vanilla, but quickly picks up fruit, spice and charred
meat notes. All this in a package that is soft without being simple.
