Lunch with Debbie Burden of Simonsig
When recently Debbie Burden won the Woman Winemaker of the Year award for her Simonsig Redhill Pinotage, I was among the first to applaud this young winemaker’s achievement.
Getting to know the Cape’s top winemakers, sharing ideas and finding out what makes them tick, is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. So it was with a sense of happy anticipation that I drove to Ralph’s Restaurant along the Koelenhof Road for my lunch date with Debbie. Simonsig’s cellarmaster, Johan Malan, also kindly accepted my invitation and while waiting for him, over a glass of the famous Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel, Debbie told me a little bit about her background.
Born and bred in Namaqualand, (Springbok, to be exact) Debbie’s love for animals prompted her to enrol at Stellenbosch University with a view to doing Veterinary Science. But the girl from Namaqualand soon fell for the lure of the Cape Winelands and Debbie switched to Oenology.
On Johan’s arrival we were seated in a quiet corner, allowing us to enjoy, apart from the attractive ambience of the restaurant, a leisurely conversation. Over Ralph’s magnificent mussels, complemented by a glass of Simonsig Chenin Blanc, the lively discussion focussed on current challenges and opportunities in the South African wine industry. Following 24 harvests at what can only be described as one of the Cape’s most famous wine estates, Johan is adamant that innovation is the key.
Over the main course, succulent beef fillet served with Simonsig’s magnificent 2002 Tiara, we moved to topics as wide and diverse as screwtops, controversial personalities shaping South Africa’s winemaking future and the credibility of South African wine competitions. Simonsig of course, emerged as the top-achieving estate at the 2005 Veritas Awards, with no less that three double gold and one gold medal.
Summing up our discussions and putting the final cherry on the top was Ralph’s excellent Brandy Pudding, perfectly complemented by a Simonsig Noble Late Harvest.
DEBBIE IN A NUTSHELL
When and where did you qualify as a winemaker?
The University of Stellenbosch, in 1999.
What was your reaction when winning the Woman Winemaker award?
Stunned, surprised, excited and honoured.
Other highlights in your career?
Being part of the Simonsig team where top quality wines are the norm.
Winemaking philosophy?
Keeping it simple, not interfering too much with what nature provides.
Favourite pastimes/hobbies?
Jogging, gardening and spending quality time with my Jack Russell and Ridgeback.