Raise a Glass

South African Cap Classique wines

WORDS Alma Viviers


VISI pops the corks of some of SA’s finest bubblies…

South Africa’s Western Cape is renowned for its exceptional wine experiences, with countless tasting rooms waiting to be explored – check out 15 must-visit options here. Among its sparkling offerings, the region also boasts some of the finest Cap Classique wines, perfect for any celebration.

Colmant

Colmant continues to offer a sophisticated selection of Champagnes, including exclusives like Tribaut, Mailly Grand Cru, and Champagne Du Mesnil. The estate also excels with its own Cap Classique wines, crafted from traditional Champagne varietals, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Colmant Brut Reserve, a balanced 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay blend, has a pale golden hue, while the Colmant Brut Rosé, with 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Chardonnay, features a beautiful salmon-pink colour and a lively, delicate mousse. | colmant.co.za

Krone

The House of Krone continues to push the boundaries of excellence in Cap Classique wines. One of its standout offerings is the Krone Kaaimansgat Site-Specific Blanc de Blancs 2018, a vintage wine made exclusively from mountain-grown Chardonnay grapes from the Kaaimansgat vineyard. This high-altitude site near Villiersdorp is known for its extreme climate, which contributes to the wine’s strong acidity, low pH, and vibrant elegance. | krone.world

Pongrácz

Pongrácz remains a favourite Cap Classique, inspired by the spirit of Hungarian aristocrat Desiderius Pongrácz. With its award-winning Desiderius Pongrácz Brut, which took gold in multiple international competitions, the brand continues to impress with a crisp, full-bodied profile and elegant packaging, making it an ideal gift choice this festive season. | pongracz.co.za

JC le Roux

JC le Roux, another long-standing South African Cap Classique house, delights with sparkling innovation and consistent quality. The iconic, award-winning Cap Classique Scintilla is known for its dry, soft and elegant citrus notes derived from Chardonnay and a full mouth-feel derived from the Pinot Noir grapes. Their range now includes low-alcohol options for diverse tastes. | jcleroux.co.za

Groote Post

Groote Post Vineyards’ Groote Post Méthode Cap Classique Brut, a Méthode Cap Classique made from a blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir 100%, is celebrated for its zesty notes of green apple and white pear with hints of brioche. | grootepost.co.za

KWV Roodeberg

KWV offers a refined range of sparkling wines, including the Sparkling Demi-Sec and the Sparkling Cuvée Brut. The Sparkling Demi-Sec delights with aromas of honeysuckle and tropical fruit, crafted exclusively from 100% Chenin Blanc, providing a sweet yet refreshing finish. The Sparkling Cuvée Brut, on the other hand, features a crisp, vibrant profile, making it an ideal celebratory choice. | kwv.co.za

Peter Falke

Peter Falke’s Noelina Cap Classique 2028 is a 100% Chardonnay with delicate bubbles, aromas of lemon grass and a beautiful refreshing finish of green apples on the palate. In 2023 it won Double Gold award at Gilbert & Gaillard and took home Gold at the Michelangelo Wine Awards 2024. | peterfalkewines.com


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